NORTH BY NORTHWEST FEBRUARY 2014

ABSOLUTELY

FEBRUARY 2014 £3.95

LOVE TRIANGLE

FALLING FOR BERMUDA

TICKLED PINK VALENTINE’S DAY

GIFT IDEAS

THE HIGHGATE LIFE

INTERIOR INSPIRATION FROM CARDEN CUNIETTI

THE

TRAVEL EDITION

S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY FEB_COVERS.indd 4

14/01/2014 16:46

FULL PAGE.indd 2

08/03/2013 17:09

ABSOLUTELY

CONTENTS FE BRUARY

2014

04 EDITOR’S LETTER 06 ABSOLUTELY LOVES

LOCAL

10 WHAT’S ON

What to look forward to in February

14 A TOUCH OF FROST Life of a legend: David Jason

STYLE

17 UNDERCOVER LOVER Look lacy this Valentine’s Day

25 HAPPY FEET

Rachael Laine brings Salt Water Sandals to our shores

27 HOLIDAY WISHLISTS Insider vacation essentials

FOOD

45 HOT TABLES

Top ten dinner destinations

46 WE’LL DRINK TO THAT

Recipes from the cocktail king, Tristan Stephenson

TRAVEL

59 HOME FROM HOME

Alex Jones on why she’d move to Bermuda

60 THE BEAUTY SPOT

Edwina Langley falls under Rio’s spell

Find us online @zest-media.com

CONTENTS.indd 3

13/01/2014 12:45

ABSOLUTELY EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITORIAL INTERNS PROPERTY EDITOR TRAVEL EDITOR ART DIRECTOR

HELEN BARON CATHERINE HALES ELLIE RICHARDS HUGO HUNTER GEORGIE LANE-GODFREY RAY SEARLE

PRODUCTION MANAGER

STEWART HYDE

EDITORIAL DESIGNER

ANDREW MAVIN

MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER

GEMMA ISTEED

PRODUCTION DESIGNER

TAHIR KAPUCU

ART WORKER

EKREM YILMAZ

JUNIOR DESIGNER

EDWARD TAYLOR REBECCA NOONAN

PRODUCTION CONTROLLER PHOTOGRAPHERS

EDITOR’S let ter

B

FEBRUARY 2014

y the time February rolls around, I’ve usually had it. It’s likely been a long winter (and this year, a seeming eternity since last year’s long-awaited ‘summer of sun’).

Sick of the freezing winds and perennial grey skies, and with the cosier, Christmassy part of winter long since stamped out, February’s only redeeming feature seems to be its length… and even then, 28 days seems way too long.

It can’t be all doom and gloom though, and to that end we’re prescribing a winter sun escape – a shot of vitamin D to the system and some warm rays to thaw those stiff and achy bones. Luckily for you, this issue celebrates travel, as Edwina Langley heads off to Rio – contender for coolest city in the world – while Alexandra Jones lifts the lid on Bermuda, tropical tax haven and home to the world’s most famous triangle. Not your average holiday destinations, then.

Of course, this month also means Valentine’s Day – though whether that tempers or exacerbates the February blues may depend on your situation. At any rate, we’ve compiled a guide to our current favourite hotel/restaurant combos in case you’re looking to take a luxury staycation. And if you’re simply looking for a table that will impress a hot date (gents, take note), we’ve dispatched our roving reporter Beth Evans to round up the ten best, most buzzing restaurants to try ASAP... before another ten pop up and the list of must-visit local hotspots grows even longer.

Have a great month.

FLANNEL_PANEL.indd 4

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER GROUP PROPERTY DIRECTOR

GEORGE RAMSAY KRISTIAN LIBETTA TOLGA SAYLAN ALEXANDRA HUNTER

PROPERTY DIRECTOR

ANDY ELMER

PROPERTY MANAGER

EMILY SAUNDERSON

FINANCE MANAGER

MARIANNE MCFADDEN

FINANCE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HVID

MARKETING MANAGER DIRECTOR MANAGING DIRECTOR

LEAH DAY GREG HUGHES SHERIF SHALTOUT

For advertising enquiries please call 020 7704 0588 or email: advertising@zest-media.com

Subscriptions are available simply by emailing clarissa@zest-media.com. You can receive an online subscription for FREE or a postal subscriptions for 12 months, £30 respectively (to cover postage and packaging). Please email us with your preferred option and details.

ZEST MEDIA LONDON 213 Westbourne Studios, Acklam Road, London W10 5JJ, T: 020 7704 0588 F: 020 7900 3020

Helen Baron, Editor

TWEET ME @absolutelyedhel Email: helen.baron@zest-media.com Follow us on Twitter @Absolutely_Mags Facebook ‘Absolutely Magazines’

NORTH & CENTRAL ADVERTISING MANAGER

CHRISTINE MANN

ON THE COVER:

Ted Baker; tedbaker.com

Zest Media London Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media London Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. www.zest-media.com

13/01/2014 16:59

Feeling out room of scale youraround? house?

Want more towithrun

nt more room to run aroun Need more space to run around in?

moreto room to run Want moreWant room run aro Want more room to run around? room to run around?

Want Want moremore room to run around?

Want more room to run arou

If you need more space, then call...

BASEMENTS

Want more room to run around?

LOFT CONVERSIONS

BASEMENTS EXTENSIONS

BASEMENTS

HOME IMPROVEMENTS Want more room to run

If you need more space, we have over 40 years experience in expanding and improving homes across London. For a free, no obligation survey and quotation call us or visit our website:

T CONVERSIONS

Want more room to run around?

020 8896 0777 BASEMENTS

EXTENSIONS

BASEMENTS

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WWW.INEEDMORESPACE.CO.UK d more space, we have over 40 years experience in expanding and improving h ndon. ForWea free, no obligation andinquotation us or visit our we have over 40 years of survey experience expanding call and improving

BASEMENTS

LOFT CONVERSIONS EXTENSIONS IMPROVEMENTS homes across London.

For a free,BASEMENTS no obligation HOME survey and quotation, call us or visit our website:

020 8896 0777

you need more space, we have over 40 years experience in expanding and improving homes cross London. For a free, no obligation surveyEXTENSIONS and quotationBASEMENTS call us or visit our website: LOFT CONVERSIONS HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WWW.INEEDMORESPACE.CO.UK

If you need more space, we have over 40 years experience in expanding and improving h across London. For a free, no obligation survey and quotation call us or visit our we

020 8896 0777

MORE SPACE.indd 1

WWW.INEEDMORESPACE.CO.UK

13/11/2012 10:59

10

THINGS WE

ABSO LUTE LY

LOVE

FIRED EARTH

It’s a New Year and time to say goodbye to that drab grey lounge (it did somewhat dampen the party atmosphere, after all). If you’re feeling in the mood for a domestic makeover, Fired Earth has a range of wonderful paint colours to get you inspired. £34 for 2.5 litres, 41 Heath Street, NW3; firedearth.com

MARKS & SPENCER

ANTHROPOLOGIE

Everyone loves a dachshund - especially one that promises to organise your post. So adorable that it’ll even make bills look appealing, this pooch makes the perfect gift if you can bear to part with it. £28; anthropologie.eu

Marks and Sparks have pulled out all the stops recently and, despite the slight fustiness associated with the brand, came up with plenty of winners in their SS14 range. We’re particularly taken with this floral suit – though wearing both pieces at the same time is advisable only for the very bold.

10 Pond Street, NW3; marksandspencer.com

6

ABS LOVES.indd 38

13/01/2014 12:52

ABSOLUTELY LOVES

VENNA

Venna’s punk princess aesthetic combines Swarovski crystals and faux jewels with spikes, chains and colours in a spirit of excess that’s an antidote to any February blues. £357-£620, 13 Calvert Avenue, E2; soboye.com

MONSOON

We’re inching towards yet another wedding season and this year we’re determined to make like the Scouts and Be Prepared.

With this in mind, we’ve got our eye on Monsoon’s marvellous wedding collection – in particular the super cute children’s range.

1 Hampstead High Street, NW3; monsoon.co.uk

ASOS CLUTCH

Springtime is busting out all over... alright, perhaps not exactly busting, but it is poking its nose out rather timidly. Get into the spirit of things with this excellent (and frankly rather over the top) clutch. £35; asos.com

OFFICE

These t-bar shoes tick so many boxes; the burgundy velvet is bang on trend whilst the buckle and straps make them completely timeless and the slight heel makes them a little more feminine than their Dr Marten counterparts. £60, 210 Camden High Street, NW1; office.co.uk

EMMA WOOD

The old-fashioned craft of marquetry is reborn in the work of West Londoner Emma Wood, whose quirky Woodpop collection features a set of pieces with inlaid wood veneers inspired by Pop Art. We love this Circus piece, £650, available in a limited edition of 10 from the Fairground Triptych; woodpop. co.uk

NEW YORK CULT RECIPES

PENHALIGONS

Sounding more like a soup than a scent, Penhaligon’s Vaara eau de parfum features notes of coriander and carrot seeds, creamy saffron and juicy quince – and smells amazing. We’re not sure whether to spray it on or just chow down. Either way: yum. £120, 112 Islington High Street, N1; penhaligons.com

If you’ve been announcing that you’re on a no-fat, nocarbs diet (and have realised what a mistake that was), ditch it immediately. If you need any more prompting to get back to chomping, this indulgent cookbook provides reasons in spades... £20; 55 -57 Marylebone High Street; conranshop.co.uk

7

ABS LOVES.indd 39

13/01/2014 12:53

SiamThaiSanctuary Massage Therapy Invites you to discover our haven of therapeutic and relaxing Thai Massage in our critically acclaimed West Hampstead studio.

Take time out to unwind and de-stress with one of our team of highly experienced, hand-picked therapists.

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of our stunning individually designed treatment areas where you can enjoy one of our Signature Thai Massages or even our invigorating Siam Herbal Compress!

Whether to relieve knots & tension or just unwind and relax, we are open 7 days a week.

Start 2014 with a touch of indulgence. Enjoy our new invigorating Lime and Ginger body scrub range with a 15% discount until the end of February!

15% OFF

expires end of Febuary 2014

www.siamsanctuary.com

0207 435 2065

info@siamsanctuary.com

call now to book

SIAM SANCTORY.indd 2

12/12/2013 09:52

ABSOLUTELY GIFTS

Who can resist a pink present this Valentine’s Day? 5

1

6 8

2

12

9

3

4 10 7

11

1. Qui est Paul? Picto birdhouse, £49; urbansuite.co.uk 2. Sennheiser Momentum ON pink headphones, £169.95; johnlewis.com 3. REN Rose Otto bath oil, £30; renskincare.com 4. Habitat red fairy lights, £35; habitat.co.uk 5. Rococo Heart chocolates, £10; rococochocolates.com 6. Pride and Prejudice Kindle case, £25; klevercase.co.uk 7. Kirsten Goss Minnie earrings, £175 kirstengoss.com 8. Damaris BB Raspberry Ripple Thong, £41; damaris.co.uk 9. NARS Adelaide Illuminator, £22.50; selfridges.com 10. Rose gold and rose quartz polygon ring, £1,840; kattri.com 11. Power purse with concealed smartphone charger, £84.95, cuckooland.com 12. Tattinger holographic rose champagne, £45; oddbins.com

35 9

VALENTINES GIFTS NH.indd 35

13/01/2014 12:49

WHAT’S ON

DON’T MISS



DON GIOVANNI

ODEON CAMDEN TOWN 12 FEBRUARY In this dark reinvention of Mozart’s classic tragicomedy, the eponymous anti-hero is trapped in a cycle of endless womanising, trying desperately to evade his own inexorable mortality.

Broadcast live from the Royal Opera House, the cast includes the famed Mariusz Kwiecien alongside Alex Esposito and Malin Bystrom.

14 Parkway, NW1; odeon.co.uk

GOOD PEOPLE

HAMPSTEAD THEATRE FROM 27 FEBRUARY Starring Olivier Award-winning actress Imelda Staunton in her first role at the Hampstead Theatre in 20 years, this drama (with a healthy streak of comedy) was penned by Pulitzer Prize-winning writer David Lindsay-Abaire. The story starts in South Boston, on the wrong side of the tracks, with single mother Margie losing yet another job. Desperate for money, Margie hears of an old flame doing well in the city and tracks him down to ask for help – with amazing and unexpected results.

Eton Avenue, NW3; hampsteadtheatre.com

NINA CANELL

CAMDEN ARTS CENTRE THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY A study in making the ephemeral tangible, Swedish artist Nina Canell employs sculpture to forge links between the ‘subtlety of fluctuating forces and the minutiae of perception’ within the physical world. Made from a range of unorthodox materials – including stray socks, chewing gum and even electrical currents – her work is designed to interact with the Camden Arts Centre space.

Arkwright Road, NW3; camdenartscentre.org

10

WHAT'S_ON.NXNW.3.indd 8

13/01/2014 14:43

F E B R U A R Y

MUST SEE

WINTER’S TALE



IN CINEMAS 14 FEBRUARY

Not to be confused with the Shakespeare play of the same name, Winter’s Tale tells the story of a burglar called Peter Lake (Colin Farrell) who falls in love with an heiress (Jessica Brown Findlay) only to lose her all too soon.

Through a series of mysterious events and pursued through time by his enemies, Peter ends up in modern-day New York, unsure of anything other than his enduring love for his darling Beverly. Spanning more than a century, this extraordinary love story takes in one of miracles, destiny and the ever-raging battle between good and evil. The film is the directorial debut of Academy Awardwinning screenwriter Avika Goldsman (A Beautiful Mind), is based on the acclaimed novel of the same name by Mark Helprin

FOUR FOUR JEW THE JEWISH MUSEUM UNTIL 23 FEBRUARY

Changing one’s football allegiance is as impossible as changing one’s religious affiliation.’ Colin Shindler, Manchester United Ruined My Life. This new exhibition seeks to uncover the as yet untold story of the link between football and British Jewish identity, a history that is denser and richer than many would suspect. Featuring memorabilia, rare objects, old and new film footage and interactive exhibits, the show tells the the tale of the clubs, players, fans and socalled ‘religion’ of the beautiful game.

129-131 Albert Street, NW1; jewishmuseum.org.uk

and features a galaxy of stars including Jessica Brown Findlay of Downton Abbey fame and Australian heavyweight Russell Crowe as the villain of the piece.

Incredibly promising newcomers include Ripley Sobo and Mckayla Twiggs (fresh from the Broadway run of acclaimed Irish musical Once), but the film’s heart is located unequivocally in Colin Farrell’s devastatingly romantic lead performance – one that is guaranteed to have every woman in the audience besotted by the time the credits roll.

Directed by Avika Goldsman Starring Colin Farrell, Russell Crowe and Jennifer Connelly

HOW TO BE IMMORTAL JACKSONS LANE 4 FEBRUARY

The ways in which our identities live on after our bodies die has always been a subject of artistic scrutiny, but what happens when more than just our names or achievements have an afterlife? How to be Immortal explores the life of Rosa, whose mother Henrietta died in West Virginia in 1951 but whose cells were kept alive in laboratories all over world, and who now has to deal with the love of her life dying at the moment she finds out she is pregnant. A fascinating study of mortality and meaning.

269a Archway Road, N6; jacksonslane.org.uk

11

WHAT'S_ON.NXNW.3.indd 9

13/01/2014 14:44

F E B R U A R Y

BOOK REVIEW

REVIEW

THE NEWS: A USER’S MANUAL

by ALAIN DE BOTTON

The scandal of the ongoing Leveson Inquiry forced us all to evaluate and question the sometimes underhand methods of journalists, and reaffirmed the cliche that not everything we read should be taken as gospel. Despite this, the social importance and, what’s more, authority of the news in contemporary society is ever prevalent. It is this topic that influential writer, philosopher and founder of the School of Life Alain de Botton has explored in his new book, The News: A User’s Manual - an eye-opening and intriguing illustrated guide on the precautions we should take when we read the news.

Published 6 February, £18.99; Penguin

THE COAT ROUTE

by MEG LUKENS NOONAN

EMIL AND THE DETECTIVES

NATIONAL THEATRE A German children’s novella set in 1930s Berlin may not be an obvious choice for the National Theatre’s newest family show, but Emil and the Detectives works better on stage than you would ever imagine. It’s a small story that takes in a number of elements that lend themselves perfectly to theatre: a classic villain, an innocent young boy, a big group of children and pre-war Berlin.

And in the vast space of the Olivier it’s an impressive performance, memorable for its choreography and sheer visual impact.

In many ways it’s the city that’s the real star of the show, evoked through a minimalist, angular set and a series of expressionist, Metropolis-style projections plus a choreography of lampposts,

umbrellas and men in suits.

There’s a clever sewer scene, an impressive tram ride and a buzzing newsroom, all generating the aesthetic of a busy capital that appears threatening to newlyarrived, 10 year-old Emil, who has been robbed of his precious 140 marks on the train from provincial Neustadt. The child actors put on a fantastic performance, particularly Izzy Lee as Emil’s tomboyish cousin Pony the Hat, whose culottes and bicycle ensemble is as stylish as anything, and Ethan Hammer as the brave and loyal Emil, while the team of 50 detectives (recruited from local schools through a series of spring workshops) fill the stage with character as they chase the villainous Mr Snow to justice in project Password Emil.

Emil and the Detectives runs until 19 March; nationaltheatre.org.uk

Shoppers are often torn between stocking up on cheap, disposable trends from high street chains or spending more on quality, investment pieces - often opting for the former. But even the biggest of big spenders would balk at the idea of spending $50,000 on a coat. When journalist and travel writer Meg Lukens Noonan learned of this eye-wateringly expensive creation, she impulsively set off on a quest to find out how it was made.

This unique journey of artisan producers took her from a fourth-generation tailor in Sydney, to rare fleece from Peru, exquisite Italian silk, to a quaint English button factory. This is the story of one very special coat and a testament to item of lasting value in an ever-increasingly disposable society.

Published 14 February, £8.99; Scribe Publications

THE DEEPEST SECRET

by CARLA BUCKLEY Tyler Lattimore is an ordinary teenage boy living under extraordinary circumstances. He suffers from a rare medical condition that renders him fatally sensitive to light. This means that everyday life for Tyler and his protective mother Eve on their suburban street is conducted behind closed doors and heavy curtains - only venturing outside under the safety of nightfall. As Tyler grows ever more restless under his stifling conditions, a tragedy rocks the quiet cul-de-sac and Eve will be forced to protect her family from secrets that not even love can conceal. An engaging and riveting read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Published 4 February, £20; Bantam Dell Publishing Group

12

WHAT'S_ON.NXNW.3.indd 10

13/01/2014 14:44

Concept Kitchens

Bath Sorts

38 Offord Road, Islington, London, N1 020 7700 1333 www.bathsorts.co.uk

The Tile box Bathsorts 2013.indd 1

40 Offord Road, Islington, London, N1 020 7700 1555 www.conceptkitchensislington.co.uk

40 Offord Road, Islington, London, N1 020 7700 1444 www.thetilebox.co.uk

20/09/2013 14:52

n o s a J d i v Da

E OF

H ON T I W TALGIC S S O N GETS ED ACTOR Y L E UT S BEST-LOV L O N’ ABS BRITAI

14

David Jason.C&A.indd 16

13/01/2014 12:51

ABSOLUTELY PROFILE

or all the faddishness and transience of modern culture, there are some fictional characters that will be around forever. Whether first encountered in the pages of childhood storybooks or flickering across the silver screen in later years, they’re the ones who capture your imagination and excite your curiosity.

You may love them, admire them, envy them, despise them – it doesn’t matter. They remain archetypal and emblematic, burned into the collective consciousness because of the power of their portrayal. And needless to say, whether they are adapted for the screen or created expressly for it, they’re parts every actor wants to play. In a career spanning nearly 50 years, David Jason has played quite a few.

Now 73 and a bona fide national hero, Jason has played characters as beloved and enduring as curmudgeonly detective Jack Frost (in longrunning drama A Touch of Frost) and hapless shop assistant Granville (in classic sitcom Open All Hours). He’s taken up residence in a million children’s heads as the voice of Wind in the Willows’ bumptious Mr Toad and, of course, won hearts all over the world as possible the most brilliantly realised comedy character of all time, Only Fools and Horses’ Derek ‘Del Boy’ Trotter. There’s no argument: David Jason is a living legend. And with the recent publication of his autobiography, My Life, his legions of fans can get to know their hero even better.

‘I didn’t want it – I didn’t want to talk about myself,’ Jason shrugs. He’s a famously plain speaker with little time for showbiz artifice. ‘But

F

DAVID AND HIS ELDER BROTHER

I’ve had two unofficial ones done over the years; terrible books that people wanted to cash in on.

And I thought, this is a rip off ! It’s not fair. So I wanted the story told in my own language.’

Jason has preserved a horde of keepsakes and memorabilia from his many roles over the years, a trove of mementoes that came in handy when recalling his career. Of his first ever TV part, in Crossroads in 1964, he tells me: ‘I was so pleased with what I was doing, I wanted to keep a memory of it. Every job that I did, every show I was on, I have a programme, reviews which I kept... photographs as well.’

He refers to the process of compiling his memories ‘a curate’s egg’, with some parts more enjoyable than others, and admits there was a bittersweet element to recalling the happy moments of his life.

‘When you look back on some of the good times and the fun times you had, you realise it has gone,’ he says. ‘For example, every single episode of Fools and Horses, Open All Hours, Frost, everything that I’ve done… You couldn’t wait to get up in the morning to go to work, because you knew you were going to work to make yourself laugh. And because of that, when you remember those good times, you realise that they’re in the past and you can’t grab hold of them, they’re gone. That was the most difficult thing.

‘But the book tells the story, which is what everybody wanted,’ he continues. ‘Nothing is too serious. There are one or two moments, obviously, like when Myfanwy [his partner of 18 years, who died in 1995] was diagnosed with cancer – I had to go through all that side. But then everyone’s life has ups and downs. Nobody wants that to happen, nobody wants their nearest and dearest or a good friend to die, but it happens. But otherwise – at least I’ve told it and nobody else has!’

Although he had already enjoyed success as Granville in Open All Hours, playing the naive assistant to the great Ronnie Barker’s Arkwright, it was not until 1981 that he landed the role that would change his life forever. Jason’s portrayal of ‘wheeling and dealing’ market salesman Derek Trotter in Only Fools and Horses is undisputedly iconic; the show provided so many classic comedy moments – as well as the occasional dash of genuine pathos – that it still regularly takes the top spot in polls of the greatest television comedy ever made. I ask Jason if he has any idea what made the show so successful.

‘Well, the first thing is, it is funny,’ he explains.

‘The second thing is that it is British, and British humour is something everyone can relate to – and they also relate to the struggles of the working man – or the not-working man!

Someone who would do anything to succeed, to earn a crust, to keep the wolf from the door.

All the characters were very funny, silly. But basically it was all about people you recognised.’

The same is true of Granville and co in Open

EARLING THESPING IN THE GLASS MENAGERIE

RODNEY, DEL, GRANDAD

WITH LYNDA BELLINGHAM

All Hours, which may be one reason the BBC saw fit to treat fans to a new, one-off Christmas episode of the show at the end of last year, with Jason now in charge of the shop. He smiles at the thought, and it strikes me what a singular testament this is to the longevity of his career.

He seems to be thinking something similar.

‘Until I started to do this book, I never thought about how many successful shows I have been in, right from the theatre into television. There were so many actors I worked with when we were all struggling to make a living, all in love with the business, but so many fell by the wayside. And yet, I am still here!’

My Life by David Jason is available now at all good bookshops, published by Century.

15

David Jason.C&A.indd 17

13/01/2014 12:51

1300 REASONS TO TREAT YOURSELF Receive £1,300 when you upgrade to a BeoVision 11 Television*

EXCLUSIVE FREE GIFT Present this advert in store and receive a free gift when you have a demonstration of BeoVision 11.*

Trade in your old television and bring the superior Bang & Olufsen sound and picture of the BeoVision 11 into your home.

Purchase a BeoVision 11-46 or 11-55 and receive £1300 in part exchange for your existing television or £850 when you buy a BeoVision 11-40 television. 0% interestfree credit is also available to make upgrading even more affordable.

Engineered with uncompromising Bang & Olufsen perfection, BeoVision 11’s exceptional LED-based LCD display heightens the imagination with razor-sharp images and powerful sound.

There has never been a better opportunity to spoil yourself and the ones you love.

Please contact us to see how the BeoVision 11 can make your life even more special. *Terms and conditions apply.

Bang & Olufsen Swiss Cottage 79-81 Fairfax Road, London, NW6 4DY B&O_NXNW.indd 2

swisscottage@bang-olufsen.co.uk Tel: 020 7624 4243 13/01/2014 14:41

ABSOLUTELY FASHION

FULL STEAM AHEAD

The current Ted Baker collection is elegant with a retro 40s/50s feel, featuring nipped in waists and clean lines. We can also confirm that standing next to a steam train will make you look at least 80% more chic whilst wearing them. Unit 5 Canada Place, E14; tedbaker.com

WRAP UP

We’ve found a winter warmer worth cooing over. This cuddly oversize coat –from purveyors of French chic –Sandro, nails the shearling trend so your cool credentials will remain intact while you layer up. Moelleux Coat, €395; fr.sandro-paris.com

E STYILP T

FASHION NOTES

GET SHIRTY

ABSOLUTELY SPANGLED

Ribbons aren’t just for little girls. A loose, messy plait held in place with a chunky black ribbon adds an effortless touch of girlish charm at minimal cost.

Image: ASOS

Forget diamonds for Valentine’s Day; these crystallised earrings from Wolf and Moon are spangly, dangly and a hundred times more fun (and therefore much more likely to get you hot-stepping on the dancefloor). £40; wolf-and-moon.com

Denim is back with a vengeance for SS14. Designers found ways to integrate the fabric into their collections as well as completely reworking it in dresses, skirts and jumpsuits. There were even some all-over denim looks for the more confident fashionista; for the rest of us, there’s this lovely smock-style shirt from eco-label Beaumont Organic. £176; beaumontorganic.com

17

FASHION NOTES.indd 39

13/01/2014 14:49

LOVER Racy lacy looks for Valentine’s Day Photography Steve Wallington Alex Longmore

FEB SHOOT.indd 24

13/01/2014 10:40

Black plain bra, £42 and black plain pants £21

by Studio La Perla, laperla.com, or at houseoffraser.co.uk 08456 021 03 Lace bunny ears, £7, urbanoutfitters.co.uk

FEB SHOOT.indd 25

13/01/2014 10:40

Black baby doll, halter neck negligee £425, myla.com, 08448736111 Black pants £18 by Sexy Pants and Naughty Knickers, pomlampson.com, 020 7376 5336 Heart and arrow necklace £208, daisyknights. com, 01608811889

FEB SHOOT.indd 26

13/01/2014 10:41

Black body with lace, £376, by Chantal Thomas at petitsbisous.com 020 73527044 Black velvet strappy heels, £570, Gina Gold heart ring, £180

by Daisy Knights, as before

FEB SHOOT.indd 27

13/01/2014 10:41

FEB SHOOT.indd 28

13/01/2014 10:41

Nude and black lace body, ÂŁ385, Sarrieri, http:// www.sarrieri.com Black stones knuckleduster ring ÂŁ316 by ESHVI. co.uk 02033999303

Photography: Steve Wallington Styling: Alex Longmore Assisted by: Beatrice Trodden Hair & Make Up: Aly Hazelwood using Rococo Nail Apparel Model: Tyler @ FM With thanks to The Portobello Hotel 22 Stanley Gardens, W11 2NG 020 7727 2777

FEB SHOOT.indd 29

13/01/2014 10:41

Tom.indd 2

17/09/2013 10:11

ABSOLUTELY LOCAL

HAPPY FEET NORTH LONDONER RACHAEL LAINE ON THE US FOOTWEAR STAPLE THAT’S FAST BECOMING A UK FASHION MUST-HAVE

Tell us about Craftymothers?

Craftymothers looks to launch and build brands that don’t exist in the UK and European markets. I only concentrate on what I can get truthfully passionate about: this means all the brands I approach are focused on family lifestyle and they must have a unique selling point. After having my kids I realised how much stuff is sold as ‘essential’ but just clutters our lives needlessly.

What is so unique about the original Salt Water Sandal and why did you want to work with them?

I noticed Salt Water Sandals appearing on American ‘mommy blogs’ when I was on maternity leave with my second child. I was drawn to them because they were so simple, classic and plain. I hated all the glittery embellished squeaky-heeled offerings in the shops – I just wanted a plain summer shoe that wasn’t trying to be a toy; plus I wasn’t keen on moulded Birkenstocks for my young daughter’s soft feet and Crocs had no support. When I discovered Salt Waters could also get wet, the love affair got serious! They’re great for the UK’s pebble beaches too.

MY MOTTO SO FAR HAS BEEN, ‘WALK SLOWLY IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION, DON’T RUN TOO FAST IN THE WRONG ONE’.

Why are Salt Water Sandals a holiday must-have?

The fact that they come in 14 colours and go with every outfit (be it cut-off denims or a glam maxi dress) makes them the best chameleon accessory. They pack completely flat and if you take one classic colour and one special (metallic or patent), you are pretty much set for any occasion. They are also super comfortable and don’t dry up and crack after washing or getting wet. In fact, we advise you to get them wet at least once as they relax to your foot’s shape.

Why has it taken so long for the product to cross the pond?

I guess I was lucky enough to ask them first and then didn’t give up until they agreed!

Because Salt-Waters are such a summer staple in the USA, there are no big advertising campaigns – you just go down to your local shoe store at the start of the summer and pick

out a new pair. They were originally only a kids range of sandals but since up-scaling them to adult sizes, those grown-up kids started wearing them alongside their children. It certainly helped that celebs like Maggie Gyllenhaal, Alexa Chung, Kate Moss and Sienna Miller are big fans.

How long have you been in the fashion industry? Did you always want to strike out on your own?

This is only my second foray into fashion. It was more the story and design of Salt-Water as a product that got me super excited as a marketeer.

You just couldn’t go wrong with an unknown launch product that has the magic triptych of an

authentic history, classic design and truthful USP. After having kids, you do evaluate the hours you work and I knew that if I was going to continue at director level I at least wanted to be doing it for myself and for something I really cared about. My career path has been creative, rich and varied (TV producer, florist, events director and even writing a few kids books), but it has stood me in good stead for the many hats I have to wear in one working day. My motto so far has been, ‘Walk slowly in the right direction, don’t run too fast in the wrong one’. I just need to be reminded of it every now and then! sunsansandals.co.uk

25

FASHION Q&A.indd 3

13/01/2014 10:42

MITCH CLOTHING SIZE 16 - 30 0207 586 0030 | WWW.MITCHCLOTHING.CO.UK | 14 ENGLAND’S LANE, LONDON NW3 4TG

MITCH CLOTHING_NXNW_OCT.indd 2

13/01/2014 16:35

ABSOLUTELY FASHION

Holiday

EDIE PARKER CLUTCH

I’ll be packing Edie Parker’s trophy clutches, inspired by the showgirls and socialites of the ’50s and ’60s. £1,040

W ISH LIST A CLUTCH OF STYLE AND HEALTH INDUSTRY INSIDERS SHARE THEIR TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND FAVOURITE DESTINATIONS.

MARNI FLATS

Flat sandals are must- haves for SS14. Seen everywhere from Marc Jacobs to Givenchy, my favourites are Marni’s metallic leather sandals, which feature a moulded insole for extra all-day comfort. £370

ALL CLOTHES AVAILABLE FROM

Our Wandering Minds,120 Islington High Street, N1;

STRIPED SKATER SKIRT

OURWANDERINGMINDS.COM

For a cute and easy beach look £44

SASHA SAROKIN

JOSEPH OXFORD WHITE SHIRT

You can’t go wrong with a classic white shirt like this Joseph Oxford version, exclusive to Net a Porter. It can add a luxe touch to a casual outfit and looks great worn over swimwear paired with a statement necklace. £160

BUYING MANAGER NET-A-PORTER

ALL AVAILABLE FROM NET-A-PORTER.COM

DESTINATION Greece. The perfect blend of sun, fun and tranquility.

ELISA EMERY

FOUNDER OF OUR WANDERING MINDS DESTINATION Miami. The food, beaches and architecture are incredible.

BOOK Any over-the-top fantastical novel by Danielle Steel to read on the beach.

BEAUTY La Roche-Posay sunscreen with SPF 50; I prefer tanning slowly and gradually. £16.50, available at Boots

FLORAL BLAZER For a relaxed yet stand-out daytime look that immediately adds a twist to any simple outfit. £56

BEAUTY

Natura Bisse’s Cure Sheer Cream is amazing! It’s tinted so it’s great for evening out imperfections. £135

BOOK Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead

GOLD JEWELLERY

One of my current favourite brands is Arme De L’Amour. The finger bracelets and arm cuffs are designed to be stacked for an edgy finish to your holiday look. £280

ANFRAY & ANFRAY INSEPARABLE RING

This twists and is also practical, I never take it off. £1,700; wolfandbadger.com BEAUTY

Bobbi Brown lipsticks.

I love experimenting with more daring shades on holiday. £18 & £19; bobbibrown.co.uk

LILY SIMPSON FOUNDER OF THE DETOX KITCHEN DETOXKITCHEN.CO.UK

DESTINATION India – I recently went to Munnar Tea Plantation to do a three day cooking course, then on to Kerala.

BOOK The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton; it won the Booker Prize but is 800 pages long so it’s the perfect holiday read.

NICHOLAS THORN MENSWEAR BUYER AT QUESTION AIR

GOLD NECKLACE

‘I Love a Lassie’ Cobweb lace necklace – I love gold and this necklace is the perfect for holiday; it looks great on bronzed skin. £135; ilovealassie.uk.com

BEAUTY

I love Murdock for men’s shaving toiletries and the new Napier 1903 cologne is my absolute holiday essential – just remember to pack it in your hold luggage! £90; murdocklondon.com

ORLEBAR BROWN POLO SHIRT PANTHER MESSENGER BAG

My ultimate travel companion.

PantherAviator Messenger Bag, £327; opumo.com

Conveniently made of terry towelling, this is ideal poolside wear. £95

AVIATOR SUNGLASSES

I like to stick to simple aviators; new for the season are this Sheriff and Cherry Pair. £125

DANE SWIMMING TRUNKS

The slate grey shade adds a dash of sophisitication. £129

DESTINATION Mustique; the most perfect winter sun location I can think of.

BOOK Lord of the Rings – its great for long plane journeys.

PAUL SMITH HOLDALL BAG

For weekend jaunts, I recommend this navy holdall.

I’ll be taking it everywhere for SS14. £165

ALL AVAILABLE FROM

Question Air, 28 Rosslyn Hill, NW3;

QUESTION-AIR.COM

27

HOLIDAY WISHLIST.indd 39

13/01/2014 12:21

THE WORLD’S

LARGEST

ARCHAEOLOGICAL ARCHIVE

ED

CENSOR

What will you uncover on a tour of the What will you uncover on a tour of the Museum of London’s Archaeological Archive?

Museum of London’s Archaeological Archive?

SHOREDITCH’S SAUCY SIDE

Sat 1 & Fri 7 Feb, 11am – 12.30pm & 2-3.30pm Tour the art of erotica in preparation for Valentine’s Day. SHAKESPEARE’S LONDON

Sat 1 & Fri 7 Mar, 11am – 12.30pm & 2-3.30pm Delve into the theatre, plays and people of the 16th century.

IN TUNE WITH ARCHAEOLOGY

Fri 4 & Sat 5 Apr, 11am – 12.30pm & 2-3.30pm Handle a bird bone flute or a medieval tuning peg!

Book now

museumoflondon.org.uk/tours 020 7001 9844 London Musuem.indd 2

10/01/2014 14:18

FOR HIM

ABSOLUTELY FASHION

STYLE SKI

Designed for performance, RLX’s collection is lightweight, comfortable and breathable. Oh, and did we mention it’s warm and it looks good too? Water-repellent jackets, fleece pullovers and nylon pants all feature in a variety of jazzy colours – like this printed waterproof jacket (pictured). Team it with jeans, boots and YES, a polo-neck for après ski, and this seasons’ skiwear.

Prices vary; ralphlauren.com

STAY ON-TREND OFF-PISTE, WITH OUR GUIDE TO THE SEASON’S BEST SKIWEAR AND ACCESSORIES BOOT CAMP

Power, precision and efficient energy transmission – what more could you want from a ski boot?

If the answer’s a flamboyant colour scheme and excellent onand off-piste performance, the Rossignol Alltrack Pro 130 is the only boot you’ll ever need. £295.06 from snowinn.com

CATCH SOME AIR

The ABS Vario L Silver Steel is no ordinary backpack – it features an avalanche safety system to save your skin should the slopes suddenly give way.

Alongside the usual pockets and pouches, this clever bit of kit contains two airbags that can be inflated to provide a vital air pocket in the event of an avalanche. With a 97% survival rate, it sounds like a wise investment. £499 from snowsafe.co.uk

ICECAPADES

Goggles still reduce glare and protect your eyes, but in 2014 they’re capable of so much more. Oakley’s Airwave 1.5 peepers feature smartphone pairing and GPS tracking as well as a host of sporty tech functions, so you can measure stuff like speed and the length of jumps. £520, available at Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports, 6 Cheapside Passage, One New Change, EC2; ellis-brigham.com

RARE EARTH

The Rare Earth project sees extreme sports giant Quiksilver team up with progressive brand Isaora to produce a capsule range of high performance snowboarding kit. The line is inspired by the intersection of nature and technology, and features some super stylish boardwear as well as goggles, backpack and a matching board. isaora.com

29

MENS PAGE.indd 39

13/01/2014 10:54

Flamenco Festival LONDON

“Sadler’s Wells has struck gold with its annual season of flamenco” THE INDEPENDENT

1 - 15 March

Quarter page.indd 1

10/01/2014 12:01

EP 1

ST . erfect card Find the p d laughs to rte ea From light-h essages, at romantic m to find , you’re sure Paperchase ge to impress your sa the right mes your secret crush. r soul mate o m just £1.75…

Available fro er to seal just rememb . with a kiss

STEP 2

Avoid cliché gifts. w Sho her how much you love uty gift. her with a pampering bea er range, L’Occitane’s new Shea Butt s Oil including the 100ml Fabulou a satin, with hair and skin ing leav (£29), from ose cho , him For h. non-oily finis ries at the range of on-trend accesso rves H&M including stylish sca from just £6.99 and leather belts from £12.99.

N 1 C E NTR E ’ S G UID E TO...

THE PE RF E CT STEP 3 . to Impress

Dress the Stand out in lack gorgeous b m ss (£65) fro Broderie Dre h of glamour a touc Oasis.. Add ze’s Cabouchon ri with Accesso Earrings (£10).

Chandelier k out GAP’’ss Guys - chec r collection ea stylish mensw son’s latest a se is th r fo d shirts and sophisticate jackets. nd tre no

n1 centre.indd 1

ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 1

VAL E N T IN E ’ S DAY n1islington.com

n1shoppingcentreislington

And finally, don’t forget to prepare for that romantic kiss with H&M’s fabulous range of lipsticks, available from £3.99 For further information visit n1islington.com, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/n1shoppingcentreislington or tweet with us @n1centre.

n1centre

STEP 4

date.

Plan your te-night like ne a d ys sa g to Nothin . Dine out a ie ov m s a dinner and tre’s popular restaurant en C 1 .

N K B of the mama to G g a meal from waga s is offerin rk o W ss k for la Plus, The G ing a dessert and drin ter us ud b cl ck in lo o b tw st r fo late en catch the inema just £20. Th tt Johannson at Vue C ary rle starring Sca er’, released on Febru Islington. ‘H inal love story from 14 is an orig ated filmmaker, in Oscar-nom Jonze.

Spike

13/01/2014 14:56

13/01/2014 16:24

ABSOLUTELY KIDS

IGLOO

If you want your children to stay warm this winter, look to this Netherlands label. Barts’ exceedingly cosy kiddies garb, like the 1646 Fenny Beanie Kids hat and 1650 Wildy Hood (both pictured) will protect little ears from chilly winds while looking rather sweet too.

Available at Igloo Kids, 300 Upper Street, N1; iglookids.co.uk

ABSOLUTELY

KIDS HOW TO KEEP LITTLE ONES AMUSED RED FIRE ENGINE

£220; hedgehogshop.co.uk

R’S EDITO

PICK

SUPER FURRY ANIMALS

For a shot of fuzzy, felt-tinged nostalgia (teeny animals wearing braces), you can’t get better than Sylvanian Families. They were popular then (back when the Absolutely team were nippers) and, hearteningly, they’re just as popular now. We won’t be satisfied until our kids have collected them all – starting with this candy-floss serving lamb.

Sylvanian Families Store, 68 Mountgrove Road, N5; sylvanianfamilies.com

LEFT FIELD

Field Candy’s range of children’s play tents are designed for indoors and outdoors, based on the classic teepee shape and decorated with bright murals. We love this fairground horse tent with its nostalgic imagery. £195, fieldcandy.com

YOUNG SOLES

This luxury children’s footwear brand launched at Bubble London last month.

Using traditional methods and tooling, the debut collection features classic British heritage designs with reworked T-Bar and Mary Janes for girls and brogues, creepers and monkey boots for boys. youngsoles.co.uk

31

KIDS_v2.indd 39

13/01/2014 11:00

BEAUTY NOTES LIFE IN COLOUR

Colour up for winter with Bleach Salon’s new DIY kits. The salon gets so overbooked these days, the team decided to make their popular dyes more readily available – so you can now get rainbow results at home. The full kit includes a bleach and a toner, and you can even buy Silver Shampoo (which takes out reddish tones) and washing-out liquid (in case you don’t like the effect). £7 a bottle, 420 Kingsland Road, E8; bleachlondon.co.uk

WE LOVE

IN HEALTH f your nearest yoga studio seems too daunting, too crowded or just too far away, Yoga Team delivers experienced instructors to your home or work. Adept at running one-to-one classes as well as sessions for groups up to fifteen-strong, this ingenious company also offer a bespoke planning service for team-building events, conferences, product launches and private parties. Family and kid-friendly sessions are available, too, and the beauty of it is that any energy you would have used up getting to the studio can be saved for your class. yoga-team.co.uk

I

32

BEAUTY NOTES.indd 2

13/01/2014 11:02

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTY

IN TREATMENT CHEEKY PARLOUR f you’ve ever been cheesed off attending the kind of stressful/ super busy/cheap-but-certainlynot-cheerful salons that tend to cater for those in desperate need of a last-minute mani/pedi or blow-dry... you’ll ruddy love this. The mother of all beauty hang-outs, it takes up residence atop Jack Wills (nice), across the road from sister company the Cowshed Spa (double nice, especially if you’re checking in for a longer treatment), and luxuriates in 1000 square feet of ‘pampering parlour’, complete with all the boutique fittings you’d expect from the Soho House Group: shabby chic furniture, champagne cocktails on the go, big rustic sharing tables where you can get your nails

I

done while you natter. Choose a blow-dry or plait from the hair menu (and maybe an artisan cake or homemade organic salad from the food menu?) or just show up with a pic of a hairstyle you’d like and the whizzes at the blow-bar will whip it up. There’s even a ‘professional photography studio’, so you can upload a cheeky selfie once you’re all fi xed up… sooo 2014. It’s perfect for hen parties or a girly day out – or just getting your nails done without feeling like you’ve left the comfortable environs of home. It’s officially my new favourite place. HB 1st Floor, 64-66 Redchurch Street, E2; urcheeky.com

THREE

OF THE BEST BATH OILS

KISS IT BETTER

This month, Lulu Guinness and Clinique have teamed up to create a Limited Edition Coin Purse filled with Clinique’s Chubby Stick Moisturising Lip Colour Balm in Super Strawberry. What’s more, buying one really does mean that you can ‘kiss it better’, as the full retail price is being donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Lovely. £55, available exclusively at clinique.co.uk

Penhaligons Bluebell Bath Oil, £39, 112 Islington High Street, N1; penhaligons.com

Chanel No. 5 Intense Bath Oil, £65; boots.com

Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E, £9.99; burtsbees.co.uk

33

BEAUTY NOTES.indd 39

13/01/2014 11:03

bloom.indd 2

17/09/2013 15:18

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTY

DARLING VALENTINE GET READY FOR DATE NIGHT WITH THESE FUN FLIRTY PRODUCTS

Illamasqua Pure Pigment in Beguile,

£16.50; illamasqua.com

NARS Eye Paint in Black Valley,

£18.50; uk.spacenk.com

Bobbi Brown Lipstick in Old Hollywood,

£22; bobbibrown.co.uk Colour By Benefit Longwear Powder Shadow in Blingo, £15.50;

benefitcosmetics.co.uk

EDITO R’S

PICK

Burberry Velvet Foundation,

£35; burberry.com OPI Nail Varnish in All I Want for Christmas,

£11.50; opiuk.com Benefit They’re Real Mascara,

£19.50; benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Illamasqua Nail Varnish in Perseid,

£14.50; illamasqua.com

Bobbi Brown Ink Liner in Blackest Black,

18. Bobbi Brown Old Hollywood Eye Palette,

MAC Divine Night Mineralize Blush in Talk Of The Town,

£22; maccosmetics.co.uk

£20; bobbibrown.co.uk

£59; bobbibrown.co.uk

35

PARTY MAKE UP v2.indd 35

13/01/2014 11:04

The VIP Beauty Club The Beauty Centre brings you a brand new concept in beauty!

Very simply: Unlimited usage of salon treatments* for a fixed monthly fee Available in 3 affordable grooming packages for the true beauty aficionado.

Discover luxury treatments at their finest at The VIP Beauty Club. £99 club joining fee has been waived for the first 20 applicants This offer won’t be around for long! So! First come, first served!

For more information, contact the salon The Beauty Centre, 130 Allitsen Road, St John;s Wood, London NW8 7AU 020 7722 6603 or 020 7586 1513 VIPClub@the-beautycentre.com www.thevipbeautyclub.com www.twiiter.com/VIPClubNW8 *UNLIMITED USAGE APPLIES TO SELECTED SALON TREATMENTS AND IS BASED ON MEMEBERSHIP LEVEL. TERMS & CONDITIONS AND A FAIR USAGE POLICY APPLIES

Conditions treated: Chiropractic can help with a variety of conditions including: • Back pain • Neck pain • Neck related headaches • Prevention of migraines • Frozen shoulder • Tennis elbow • Hip and knee pain • General joints aches & pains

We offer: • Chiropractic • Acupunture • Massage Therapies • Chiropody Podiatry • Homeopathy • Nutrition • Psychotherapy Other therapies available at the clinic can help with a wide range of health conditions including: Nutritional imbalances and digestive disorders, Foot health such as ingrowing toe nails, fungal conditions, corns, verrucas & flat feet. Stresses of modern living including anxiety, depression, addictions and self-esteem issues.

Clerkenwell Clinic 178 Goswell Road Clerkenwell EC1V 7DT Mon-Fri 8am to 8pm Sat 9am-1pm-Sun 10am-2pm Islington Clinic 15 Prebend Street, Islington N1 8PQ Mon-Fri 8am to 7pm-Sat 9am -1pm

020 7490 4042

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK www.clerkenwellislingtonclinics.co.uk

IslingtonChiro.indd 1 ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 4

13/01/2014 15:19 13/01/2014 16:26

ABSOLUTELY FASHION DIOR SS14

JASON WU SS14

MAKE UP

INSIDER Arabella Preston on the universal flatterer – gold

G

old is the universal flatterer, adding warmth and sparkle to all skin tones. A hint of molten gold swept over an eyelid or fingernail is the perfect nighttime accessory and, as it is best kept simple, easy to execute.

The paler your skin, the paler you should keep your gold. This Aerin eyeliner in a soft gilt is startlingly effective dotted around the tear duct and swept under the lower waterline. It brightens and sparkles in the light and disguises redness and darkness brilliantly. For a slightly more dramatic look, try one of MAC’s limited edition pigments. They can be used loose and dry for a soft, blended look, or with a wet brush for a slick of intense colour. Restricted to your eyelids, they stay grown-up yet modern. It’s on the nails where golds and metallics really come into their own. Not only do they become miniature accessories in their own right, but metallic formulas tend to bind to the nail more than other colours, making them long-lasting and able to survive the ravages of the party season.

Nail-doyenne and Chanel ambassador Marian Newman advises: 'For a party look that transitions from day to night, start with a gorgeous shimmering shade, such as Chanel Alchimie, then cover with a quick slick of a gold glitter to transform your nails into ten little jewelled accessories.'

6

5

2

3 1

4

7

1. Aerin Cool Gel Eyeliner in Gilt, £24; harrods.com 2. Chanel Nail Polish in Alchimie, £18; harrods.com 3. Melvita L’Or Bio Huile Lumiere, £29; melvita.co.uk 4. MAC Nocturnals Mini Pigment set, £25.50; maccosmetics.co.uk 5. Aerin Lipstick in Sequin, £24; harrods.com 6. Burberry Limited Edition Nail Polish in Light Gold, £15; uk.burberry.com 7. Estée Lauder Metallic Trio Eye Palette in Gilded, £27; esteelauder.co.uk

37 73

MAKE UP INSIDER.indd 73

13/01/2014 11:57

JOIN THE UK HEALTH CLUB OF THE YEAR NO ANNUAL CONTRACT

FULL PAGE.indd 2

15/03/2013 10:44

WINNER OF THE NATIONAL FITNESS AWARD 2012 MILL HILL HALL LANE NW4 4TJ CALL 020 8457 3300 MUSWELL HILL THE AVENUE N10 2QE CALL 020 8482 3000

LABSPA.CO.UK

FULL PAGE.indd 3

15/03/2013 10:45

spitalfields.indd 2

13/01/2014 15:47

ABSOLUTELY FOOD

THE

FOOD OF LOVE

Gooey or crumbly, sweet or spicy, no food is as sensuous and versatile as chocolate.Get your bake on this Valentine’s Day with our special recipe from Molly Bakes’ new book, Chocolate.

69

FOOD OPENER.indd 69

13/01/2014 11:09

FOOD NOTES WE LOVE TAKE A TRIP

Turkish food just got a chic upgrade thanks to Selin Kiazim, former Head Chef at Peter Gordon’s Kopapa restaurant. Launching in East London (naturally) within a converted Haggerston railway arch, Trip Kitchen serves up traditional Turkish cuisine with a modern twist. Housed in a heritage building with original brickwork, raw wood cladding and stunning lighting, the menu features Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours aplenty with dishes such as brown shrimp kaygana and toasted sandwiches with Selin’s lauded Medjool date butter. Sounds Turkish delightful.

TripSpace Projects, Arch 339-340, Acton Mews, E8; tripspace.co.uk

MOTHER GOOSE

If the way to your man’s heart is through his stomach, reserve a spot at the Grey Goose Le Fizz Breakfast this Valentine’s Day. Taking place at Gordon Ramsay’s acclaimed Bread Street Kitchen, the special menu includes Grey Goose Le Fizz cocktails, bread made from the same wheat used to create Grey Goose vodka, Grey Goose-infused jams and a selection of pastries, croissants and coffee. A tasty way to start the day.

Bread Street Kitchen, One New Change, 10 Bread Street, EC4; gordonramsay.com/bread-street

42

FOODIE NOTES_v3.indd 2

FUN

BUY

CHOC-O-LOT

A perfect product for those who enjoy the results of baking but aren’t too hot on the actual process behind it, this easy-to-make mix from Montezuma’s comes in two scrumptious flavours: dark chocolate and salted peanut brownie or milk chocolate and hazelnut cookie. Throw those weary resolutions to the wind and get stuck in. £9.99; montezumas.co.uk

45

13/01/2014 11:13

ABSOLUTELY FOOD

MOLLY BAKES...

RASPBERRY RIPPLE WHITE CHOCOLATE SLAB Lovers of white chocolate will be delighted with this elegant treat. The fresh raspberry ripple gives the chocolate slab a tart edge and an amazingly vibrant colour.

BAKE THIS

INGREDIENTS 120g fresh raspberries 2 tbsp golden caster sugar  Dash of lemon juice  900g white chocolate, chopped, or callets  1 shallow baking tin measuring 32 x 22cm 







Fine mesh strainer Cling fi lm

Makes one large slab approx.

32 x 22cm

INSTRUCTIONS 1. Line the base and sides of the baking tin with cling fi lm.

2. Press the raspberries through a mesh strainer set over a bowl to remove the seeds. Stir in the sugar and add a dash of lemon juice to taste.

cooled, but not completely set, use a spoon to drizzle the raspberry juice over the surface of the chocolate. Then, using a knife or skewer, swirl the raspberry juice through the chocolate to create a rippled effect.

3. Melt and temper the chocolate.

4. Leave to set before removing from the tin.

4. Pour the tempered chocolate into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly.

Leave to cool and set a little. Once the chocolate has

Recipe extracted from Chocolate by Molly Bakes, published

by Square Peg. Photography © Georgia Glynn Smith

FINEST FIZZ

Give someone a personalised bottle of the finest fizz for Valentine’s Day. Newly launched champagne company Finest Fizz offers some of the best premier cru and grand cru independent champagnes from France. Sourced from several small artisan producers across the Champagne region, the team behind Finest Fizz has selected some of the most scrumptious bubbly around, available exclusively from them at extremely reasonable prices. And they’ll even personalise bottles with messages or images, ensuring you deliver the most thoughtful of gifts. finestfizz.biz

WINTER WARMERS

Stave off the cold this month with some of the wonderful warming recipes from GBBO’s Winter Kitchen cookbook. Filled with simple, seasonal recipes, we recommend trying your hand at the Spiced Tarte Tartin.The Great British Bake Off: Winter Kitchen, (£20, BBC Books), available from Clapham Books, 120 Clapham High Street, SW4, 020 7627 2797; claphambooks.com

45 43

FOODIE NOTES_v3.indd 3

13/01/2014 11:13

There’s a whole lot of lovin’ going on at The Highbury Barn this Valentine’s Day...

Reserve your table, book online or telephone 0207 226 2383 The Highbury Barn 26 Highbury Park - London - N5 2AB

find us on Facebook - search for ‘The Highbury Barn Pub’

twitter.com/highburybarnpub

HIGHBURYBARN.indd 1

10/01/2014 11:53

ABSOLUTELY FEBRUARY 2014 £3.95

RIO GRAND THE BEAUTY

LONDON

LONDON

STYLECATION HOLIDAY WARDROBE INSPIRATION

ABSOLUTELY S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T . E L E G A N T . A B S O L U T E LY

THROUGH THE WIRE

DALSTON’S IDRIS ELBA ON THE ROAD TO PLAYING MANDELA

DOWNLOAD

OF BRAZIL

THE NEW

i PA D A P P

HAVE LOVE, WILL TRAVEL The Valentine’s Issue S T Y L I S H . I N T E L L I G E N T. E L E G A N T. A B S O L U T E LY 09/01/2014 10:38

SEARCH FOR

‘ABSOLUTELY MAGAZINES LONDON’

iTUNES, NEWSSTAND OR APP STORE

The Best of Local Luxury

ABSOLUTELY A BSOLUTEL BSOLUTELY Chelsea Fulham

RICHMOND

FEB_COVERS.indd 1

T O D AY

Richmond

MARCH 2013 £3.95

CHILD'S PLAY

NOTTING HILL

SUGAR

KENSINGTON

SUGAR CITY & ANGEL Putney & Wandsworth

ALEX AND ALEXA'S DESIGNER PICKS

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

BEST AFTERNOON TEAS IN TOWN

Battersea & Clapham

MARCH 2013

FASHION • SHOPPING • FOOD & DRINK • WHAT’S ON • CULTURE • INTERIORS • PROPERTY

CREATIVE MINDS

TOP ART HOLIDAYS IN EUROPE

DAVID NASH MAKING SHAPES IN KEW GARDENS

T: 020 7704 0588 / F: 020 7900 3020 WWW.ZEST-MEDIA.COM

ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 2

SS TT Y Y LLII SS H H .. II N N TT E ELL LL II G GE EN NT. T. E ELLE EG GA AN NT. T. A AB BSS O O LLU U TTE ELY LY

13/01/2014 16:29

ABSOLUTELY FOOD

HOT TABLES

BETH EVANS TAKES A TASTING TOUR OF THE AREA’S MOST EXCITING DINING OPTIONS BEST FOR: FASHION-FORWARD PEOPLE-WATCHING A LITTLE OF WHAT YOU FANCY

Restaurants don’t come much hipper than this.

Don’t be put off by the old-school wooden chairs and tables, relaxed service and total lack of signage (you’ll wander past at least three times trying to find it), this is no slap-dash café. With an eclectic, classy menu to satisfy the pickiest palate and a never-ending deluge of cool young things to gawp at, it’s worth the inevitable wait for a table.

464 Kingsland Road, E8; alittlebitofwhatyoufancy.info

BEST FOR: MEETING FRIENDS FROM OUT OF TOWN THE GILBERT SCOTT

One of the crowning glories of Kings Cross’ regeneration, the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel has had not just a facelift but a total body-and-mind overhaul, resulting in the creation of this amazing restaurant. Serving traditional British classics with a touch of French pomp, it’s the sumptuous surroundings as much as the menu that bid a final adieu to the rank old Kings Cross of yesteryear. And given the romantic grandeur of the hotel itself, you’ll probably want to spend the night, too.

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, Euston Road, NW1; thegilbertscott.co.uk

BEST FOR: MEAT FANS WITH NO FEAR OF CHOLESTEROL FOXLOW

THE GILBERT SCOTT

BEST FOR: REBELLING AGAINST DRY JANUARY CASA NEGRA

Christmas is over but fear not, at Casa Negra in Shoreditch you’ll find a non-stop carnival that will banish any January blues. Get your fiesta started with frozen margaritas, braised beef cheek and frijoles charros (made with pinto beans, bacon, tomato and chipotle) before getting your dance on in the Casa Playroom club downstairs. Arriba!

54-56 Great Eastern Street, EC2; casanegra.co.uk

BEST FOR: LAZY SUNDAY VIBES VILLAGE EAST

The new recipient of an impressive revamp, Village East brings its own inimitable brand of style to Bermondsey. Reminiscent of the plushness of Shoreditch House, everything about this modern British brasserie is designed with comfort and class in mind. Go for brunch and a Bloody Mary.

171-173 Bermondsey Street, SE1; villageeast.co.uk

As you’d expect from a sibling of the Hawksmoor, Foxlow is wall-to-wall meat with a side order of fish for luck. Being a carnivore was never so grownup, but with mains like the ten-hour beef shortrib with kimchi at £16, this supposed ‘neighbourhood restaurant’ may still leave you with change in your pocket. Don’t go helping yourself at the salad bar – it’s not Pizza Hut, dear.

69-73 St John Street, EC1; foxlow.co.uk

BEST FOR: ANYONE SUFFERING FROM MEAT FATIGUE GRAIN STORE

If you’re starting to feel a bit meaty after one too many winter roasts, get yourself down to Grain Store.

Another highlight of the newly gentrified Kings Cross, this restaurant is one big celebration of all things veggie and grainy. Not exactly vegetarian, Grain Store shows that non-meat dishes don’t have to be a bland after-thought; the decor is a treat too, combining the visually quirky with clean, practical style. Try the cheeseboard, served from an upcycled pram – there’s a phrase you never thought you’d hear.

Granary Square, 1-3 Stable Street, N1; grainstore.com

VILLAGE EAST

BEST FOR: RAINY DAYS AND INTIMATE EVENINGS ODETTE’S Ah, Primrose Hill, home to that view, those Nineties parties and, since 1978, to Odette’s, the fine dining institution that makes top-notch restaurants feel like greasy spoon cafes. Using seasonal and UK-sourced ingredients, chef and owner Bryn Williams ensures each and every morsel is a delight. If you have a tendency toward food envy, the tasting menu is for you.

130 Regents Park Road, NW1; odettesprimrosehill.com

BEST FOR: BAGGING YOURSELF A BANKER STEAM AND RYE

For some, a table is made hot by a Michelin star; for others, it’s a chalkboard packed with inventive dishes. For others still, it’s a chance to see Kelly Brook pulling pints. Steam and Rye patrons may well be of the latter ilk, as this fun food/bar/club venture is part owned by the Celebrity Juice star. Food is no nonsense: lobster and burgers, easy on the greens, the kind of fare you’d expect in a Connecticut lobster shack. Squeeze past the City slickers queuing up to sing Rocky-oke and you too can sample a Five Dollar Shake – a cocktail featuring whipped cream, hundreds and thousands and topped off with a Fab lolly. What’s not to love?

147 Leadenhall Street, EC3; steamandrye.com

BEST FOR: CULINARY ADVENTURES CORNER ROOM

Some superior chef stuff goes on here, and no mistake. The restaurant may reside in Bethnal Green’s former town hall, but it’s out with the old and in with the indigestion where Corner Room is concerned. Like everything else on the menu, the Iberico pork with bitter leaves and winter relish is vastly understated in print.

Being unable to book after 7pm means that it’s first come, first served, so you may just have to while away the time with a fruity little Pinot at the bar. Life is tough sometimes.

Town Hall Hotel, Patriot Square, E2; townhallhotel.com

BEST FOR: A SPECIAL OCCASION TRULLO

Poor Robert De Niro, he’ll no longer be your favourite Italian once Trullo has taken your number one spot. And it will, especially after you’ve sampled the ravioli of pumpkin, cinnamon and ricotta sage butter followed by caramel panacotta. It won’t matter that you’ve had to wait weeks for a table, or that you’re missing your best friend’s birthday as a result.

It’s all worth it.

300-302 St Paul’s Road, N1; trullorestaurant.com

45

FOOD ROUND UP.indd 3

13/01/2014 11:15

WE’LL DRINK TO THAT...

Tristan Stephenson, owner of critically acclaimed cocktail joints Purl and The Worship Street Whistling Shop, picks the top tipples guaranteed to impress this Valentine’s Day

ROB ROY INGREDIENTS • 50ml Scotch whisky • 25ml Martini rosso vermouth • 2 dashes (2ml) of orange bitters • a twist of orange zest, to garnish tir all the ingredients together with cubed ice for around 90 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a small twist of orange zest. You might like to add a touch of sugar syrup if you have a sweet tooth, or depending on what Scotch you use.

S

46

COCKTAILS.2.indd 56

13/01/2014 11:17

ABSOLUTELY FOOD comes straight from the man himself, so who am I to argue? If you want it a little drier, try taking 5ml sugar syrup out and adding 5ml extra lemon juice. ne of the best drinks to emerge from the cocktail car crash that was the 1980s is the Bramble. The drink was invented by legendary London-based liquid guru Dick Bradsell. At the time, Dick was working in Fred’s Club in Soho, a venue that schooled many of the future stars of the London bar scene. Dick based the drink on a Singapore Sling recipe, replacing the Bénédictine and cherry brandy with crème de mure. But of course it’s not a mere rehash. There has to be something special about a cocktail that is so renowned and yet relies on such a simple formula: a gin sour with a dash of blackberry liqueur. Why not strawberry liqueur, or coffee liqueur? Well, I personally think that something special is down to a clever combination of ingredients and a name that ingeniously describes it. It’s simple when you think about it.

A bramble is a typically British prickly shrub, just as gin is a traditionally British product.

Blackberry is the base of crème de mure, but wild blackberries don’t just smell of blackberries, they also take in the smells of all the natural surroundings of the countryside – the earthiness of dried tree bark, the spice of a fallen pine cone or the sweet freshness of wild honeysuckle. These wonderfully nostalgic aromas are present in a lot of gins too: while juniper provides earthiness and pine-like flavours, coriander gives a citrusy spice and angelica introduces the deep, resinous woody notes. The combination of gin and crème de mure is genius; couple that with a name that no other word in the English language could better describe, and you have a winning drink.

O

BRAMBLE INGREDIENTS • 40ml/11⁄3 oz. tanqueray gin • 20ml/ 2⁄3 oz. fresh lemon juice • 10ml/1⁄3 oz. sugar syrup (see below) • 15ml/1⁄2 oz.

• creme de mure • blackberries (or raspberries), to garnish METHOD Build the first three ingredients over crushed ice in a chilled rocks glass, then pour the crème de mure over the top so that it ‘bleeds’ down through the ice. Garnish with two blackberries and a slice of lemon.

NB: For my personal tastes, this recipe is a touch on the sweet side, but it

CHAMPAGNE GIN FIZZ

ESPRESSO MARTINI

FOR THE LEMON & LIME GOMME • 50g lemon zest • 40g lime zest • 270ml water • 600g sugar • 30ml vodka • 3g citric acid • 2g malic acid

INGREDIENTS • 50ml/2 oz. belvedere vodka • 20ml/2⁄3 oz. espresso • 10ml/1⁄3 oz. sugar syrup (see below)

ous vide the lemon and lime zest with the water at 60ºC/140ºF for 2 hours.

Filter the liquid through muslin cheesecloth, then transfer it to a saucepan. Add the sugar and heat until the sugar has dissolved, then add the vodka and acids. Bottle and refrigerate until required.

METHOD Shake the ingredients together with cubed ice and single strain into a chilled martini glass.

S

FOR THE CHAMPAGNE GIN FIZZ Makes 6 servings • 400ml water • 10g Lalvin EC-1118 champagne yeast brand • 170ml Tanqueray London dry gin • 90ml ‘Lemon & Lime Gomme’ • orange flower water, to serve

eat 100ml of the water to 35ºC/95ºF. Add the yeast, stir fast, then set aside for five minutes. Mix the gin, Lemon & Lime Gomme and remaining water in a large mixing bowl. Pour the yeast into the bowl and whisk vigorously to fully aerate the drink. Once fully mixed, transfer the mixture to a sterilised champagne bottle and apply the cork and cage.

Store at around 30ºC/86ºF for nine days, then put in the fridge, standing up, for a further two days. To serve, spray chilled champagne flutes with orange flower water and fill to the brim!

H

ack when I first cut my teeth as a cocktail bartender, when bigger cocktail lists were better and flaming an orange twist was regarded as innovative, the Espresso Martini was the height of cool. Caffeine, alcohol, sugar. Everything the body needs for a good night out, and all held together by our 1980s superhero, the martini glass. The Espresso Martini is based on a drink created by the UK’s crown prince of cocktails, Dick Bradsell, again while he was working at the Soho Brasserie. The story goes (and it does vary depending on who you ask) that an attractive female model approached the bar where Dick was working and asked him for a drink that would ‘pick me up, then f*ck me up’ – if only all drink requests came with such exact requirements. Dick eyed the bar’s shiny new espresso machine and promptly mixed vodka, espresso and sugar together, then served it in a martini glass. The

B

Espresso Martini was born.

The growing popularity of espresso coffee in the 1980s and 90s made the Espresso Martini an inevitability.

The espresso in the drink achieves three things at once: first, it masks the alcohol in the vodka; second, it gives a caffeine kick to the receiver; and third, it turns the drink a stunning opaque brown. Also, if you use a good-quality coffee and extract the espresso correctly, you’ll be rewarded with a pale foamy head, produced by the CO² bubbles dissolved in brewed coffee. Serve an Espresso Martini in a half-pint glass and it really does look like a Guinness!

SUGAR SYRUP Sugar syrup (2:1 ratio). To make about one of litre sugar syrup, gently heat 660g caster sugar (you can also use soft brown/muscovado sugar) with 300ml water and 30g vodka in a saucepan. Once all the sugar has dissolved, bottle it and pop it in the fridge for up to six months.

The Curious Bartender: The Artistry and Alchemy of Creating the Perfect Cocktail by Tristan Stephenson with photography by Addie Chinn. £16.99, Ryland Peters & Small.

47

COCKTAILS.2.indd 57

13/01/2014 11:17

Let Us Make

Your Home Sparkle! ✔ Residential cleaning has been providing domestic cleaning services for over ten years, which is why we understand you have very exacting standards and why we offer a residential cleaning service that is customised to suit your individual requirements.

Your home sparkling from top to toe... ✔ At

residential cleaning we not only specialise in weekly cleaning, our fully trained professional cleaners work as a team to do one-day blitz cleaning. Ideal for ‘Spring’ cleaning as well as after party emergencies, before guests, during house moves or after builders. Plus it’s fantastic value!

FOR A FREE ESTIMATE - CALL TODAY ON

020 7923 2266

islington@myhome.co.uk • www.myhome.co.uk

MYHOME.indd 1

18/07/2013 10:04

ABSOLUTELY INTERIORS

GLOSS WHITE, NATURAL OAK AND DARK OAK FROM £2,300 AT THE BOLD LOOK OF KOHLER @West One Bathrooms, 44-48 Clerkenwell Road, EC1; westonebathrooms.com Tel: 020 7324 0780

ST I L L

WA T E R THE STILLNESS COLLECTION DRAWS ON THE VAST AND VARIED DESIGN EXPERTISE OF KOHLER, USING SUPERIOR CERAMICS AND SOLID WOODS FOR A FEEL THAT’S MORE LUXURY SPA THAN FAMILY BATHROOM. WE LOVE.

INTERIORS OPENER.indd 61

13/01/2014 11:18

K

I

T

C

H

E

N

S

S

I

N

C

E

1

9

8

1

120 Wigmore Street, London, W1U 3LS 509 Uxbridge Road, Hatch End, Pinner, Middlesex HA5 4JS 77-79 Wycombe End, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 1LX Telephone: 020 7486 3080 email: info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk | www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk

FULL PAGE.indd 2 Halcyon ad_210x297mm.indd 1

21/03/2013 11/03/2013 10:39 11:21

5

ABSOLUTELY INTERIORS

SCENTED CANDLES

INTERIOR

INSPIRATIONS SURFACE VIEW

Wallpaper-lovers, there’s a new name in town: prepare to be inspired by the quirky-but-cool bespoke graphics of Surface View. The brand’s collections use imagery from the British Library, P&O Heritage, the Royal Opera House and Trunk Archive as well as work by up-and-coming designers. A world of amazing prints is waiting for you – let’s hope you’ve got the wall space. surfaceview.co.uk

1. CRABTREE & EVELYN ROSEWATER POURED Candle, £22; crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

2. FEU DE BEAUMONT GOLDEN PORRINGER £395; feudebeaumont.com

3. CLINIQUE AROMATICS ELIXIR CANDLE, £35; clinique.co.uk

4. DIPTYQUE LIMITED EDITION VALENTINE’S Rosa Mundi, £42; diptyqueparis.co.uk

COSY UP

A new range of homewares from Jack Wills includes this delightful woollen pheasant cushion alongside some very soft blankets, all in characteristic urban-rustic style and stocked at the Islington branch.

359 Upper Street, N1; jackwills.com

5. JO MALONE INCENSE AND EMBERS CANDLE, £39; jomalone.co.uk

EDITO R’S

PICK

ETERNAL FLAME

These delicate, hand-blown glass candlesticks, unusual in their spherical design, create an elegant cluster of varying shapes for a sophisticated and unique table centrepiece. Large candlestick £12, small £10, 22 Marylebone High Street, W1; brissi.com

GREY SKIES

Inspired by the extreme weather, the stormclouds in Abigail Edwards’s hand-drawn Grey Sky wallpaper are at once calming and forbidding, with flashes of metallic copper enlivening the design. We also love the Stoke Newington resident’s idiosyncratic seascapes and Owls of the British Isles prints. £75 per 10m roll; abigailedwards.com

PIE MAN

This Le Creuset stoneware pie dish will stand you in good stead for harsh winter nights, when all kinds of baked goodies begin to prove their worth. Look up your heartiest, cockle-warming recipe and get stuck in; the only trouble is choosing which colour you like best. £27; available at Gill wing, 182 Upper Street, N1; lecreuset.co.uk

51

INTERIOR INSPIRATIONS_v2.indd 61

13/01/2014 16:16

DOUBLE VISION

DESIGN DUO CARDEN CUNIETTI ON NEARLY TWENTY YEARS IN PARTNERSHIP AT THE FOREFRONT OF INTERIOR DESIGN

How did you meet and create a business together?

We met through ex-boyfriends who were in a band together in the early ‘90s. We drifted apart once the band broke up (and we broke up with the boyfriends!) but then met at antique and other trade fairs as we were both working as interior designers. We worked together on a project and creatively synced immediately – from there we decided to open the shop and forge a partnership.

Have you both always had an eye for design?

Eleanora: My grandmother was a fashion couturier and when I read interviews with her now it could be me – a really strong-willed woman passionate about her work! Both Audrey and I liked rearranging our bedrooms as kids – that’s the surest sign of being an interior designer. But no matter what, you need to learn skills: drawing, colour and business knowledge are really important.

How do you approach a project?

Does each elicit a different response?

Are the guiding principles the same?

We try to get inside the client’s head to figure out what they want. We work to a brief to achieve the best result.

Tell us about your recent Highgate client. What was the brief?

Audrey: The client was a family who I had worked for briefly when they lived in Highgate. The house was beautiful, ‘great bones’ as they say, but they wanted to personalise it. They are quite informal, so they wanted the reception room to be a place to

relax and be welcoming. We designed a curved sofa as the fireplace was such a focal point in the room, then had the classic Eames recliner covered in green leather to keep the colours soft.

We worked with the height of the room to create the library corner and the space was perfect for their large-format art.

52

INTERIOR SPREAD.indd 42

13/01/2014 11:25

ABSOLUTELY INTERIORS

throw in a proper antique (i.e. something over a hundred years old) or something Asian, as that is always a nice juxtaposition with modern pieces.

or old stock for a giant sale and we give all the proceeds to charity.

Did you source any items from local suppliers?

An amazing house in Poland, a large house in Regents Park, a country house in Gloucestershire and a house in Little Venice. We are both glad to be working in the UK for the last few months as we have been travelling like crazy for the last few years.

We try to use as much UK-sourced product as possible as we get much better service from the UK and, obviously, it is more ecologically friendly. That being said, we do look at every option and try to find the best thing for a project.

How involved were the property owners?

What do you love most about working with interiors?

The owners were involved and in fact the colour of the hallway was entirely their choosing.

The console is the most glamorous children’s shoe cupboard in an olive green shagreen! And this colour worked its way through the whole ground floor.

Being able to work with beautiful things, the creativity involved in mixing it all together and admiring it on completion.

Are there design periods that you each favour?

We both like 20th century – sometimes we’ll

What other projects are you working on?

carden-cunietti.com

Tell us about Spring Clean?

Audrey came up with the idea last year and we immediately started working on it. The concept is a one- or two-day sale where our entire industry gets involved – interior designers, furniture and fabric companies donate their leftovers from projects

53

INTERIOR SPREAD.indd 43

13/01/2014 11:25

Tim Moss Bespoke kitchens www.timmoss.co.uk

TIM MOSS.indd 2

12/02/2013 17:51

TIM MOSS.indd 3

12/02/2013 17:51

WANDSWORTH SASH WINDOWS Traditional Timber Double Glazed Draught Proofing Bespoke French Doors

Quote ‘Absolutely magazine’ for an immediate

Acoustic Glass Sliding Sash Windows

10% discount

125 LAVENDER HILL

020 7924 7303

wandsworthsashwindows.com

Sash windows HALF HORIZONAL.indd 1

SO6828_Absoloutely_LongIsland_A.indd 1

ADVERT PLACEMENTS.indd 3

18/10/2013 11:37

05/12/2013 12:50

13/01/2014 16:33

ABSOLUTELY INTERIORS

2

3 1 4

e t th pu tle keton

8

of the b

teapoestt s

5

7

8 6

01. OKA, KRAAK TEAPOT, £59; okadirect.com 02. WEDGEWOOD, CUCKOO TEAPOT, £70; johnlewis.com 03. JOANNA WOOD, KING’S ROAD TEAPOT, £34; joannawood.co.uk 04. HABITAT, LAPSANG GLASS TEAPOT, £18; habitat.co.uk 05. ALEX CLARK, ROOSTER TEAPOT, £25; johnlewis.com 06. EMMA BRIDGEWATER, EGG AND FEATHER FOUR-CUP TEAPOT, £54:95; emmabridgewater.co.uk 07. OIGEN, PINK ZUNDO TEAPOT, £160; harrods.com 08. ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST, GREAT EXHIBITION TEAPOT, £75; harrods.com

57

INTERIOR PRODUCTS.indd 55

13/01/2014 11:27

HOME from HOME Alexandra Jones really dislikes travelling, so what was it about Bermuda that made her never want to leave?

ery rarely do I get the sense that I’d rather not leave a place. I will forever be that ghastly thing that no person with even vague pretentions towards adventure would want to be called – a homebody. For me, home is heavenly. My one rather doomed foray into backpacking, for example, ended with me on an early plane back, sick to the stomach (literally and metaphorically) of South America and strange beds and my own stilted Spanish. What, then, to make of Bermuda?

On the last day, having spent an afternoon in the sun, hopping from one heart-breakingly beautiful beach to another, I experienced something like an epiphany: a brilliant, completely mad idea that maybe I should just stay. A month, or six, would be about enough.

I turned to our taxi-driver-cum-tourguide (many taxi drivers in Bermuda are also

V

experienced tour guides and can offer tips and potted histories of the island as they ferry you around): ‘You know Larry, maybe I should stay for a while.’ He nodded a little, ‘I guess you enjoyed the Rum Swizzles, then.’

At Sharky’s Bar, a shanty sort of set-up, built around a split in the cliff and facing out onto a crystalline bay, you could get any drink you wanted as long as it was rum. On that last afternoon, Sharky had played Smooth Operator

by Sade and expounded on the glories of the island; I think the spirit of Mark Twain, who first visited Bermuda in 1867, was hovering around whispering in my ear that I could go to heaven, but he was staying in Bermuda. And I thought to myself, you’ve got it right there, Mark, clouds and divinity pale in comparison to pink sand beaches and deadly cocktails. The question is this: was it, as Larry had wryly

surmised, the rum talking? After all, I did get on the plane. But in London, far from feeling that familiar relief (a gentle sigh like a cork unstopping, ‘ah, home’), I was still wrangling with the crazy thought that maybe I should have stayed. So, what to chalk this up to?

Settled in the 17th century by a shipwrecked Admiral George Somers and his 150 or so crew, the uninhabited island had been overlooked for over a century by Spanish sailors, who had used it as a stop-gap on journeys to the new world but never claimed it. Thought to be the inspiration for Shakespeare’s The Tempest, Bermuda has had a reputation for being a paradise for over four hundred years.

Its natural charms are unquestionable; the beaches around the island are some of the best in the world, with achingly lovely blue-green waters and excellent marine life for snorkelling

58

BERMUDA_C&A.indd 68

13/01/2014 11:28

ABSOLUTELY TRAVEL

Dockyard, though geared towards mass-tourism, is a fascinating hub of shops (be sure to get some cake from the Bermuda Rum Cake Company) and museums (the National Museum of Bermuda is housed in the sprawling fortress).

For their part, the islanders take the paradisiacal reputation seriously. This means two things: firstly, service in hotels, bars and restaurants is in the American mode – quick, quiet, effusive – while locals are almost unfailingly helpful and friendly. Secondly it means that Bermuda is extremely safe. As Larry put it, ‘In the Caribbean you’re told to stay inside your resorts, in Bermuda the whole island is your resort.’

Be that as it may, as befits a paradise, the hotels cater to a luxury market and can be hard to leave.

I stayed in the Fairmont Southampton, a sweeping coral-pink building set atop a hill on the south side of the island. Classically furnished throughout, with grand staircases and dark wooden beams, it has a solid, American Deep South charm. I would recommend that you go for a Fairmont Gold stay. Each ‘Gold’ floor has a lounge where breakfast is served in the mornings and where an almost constant flow of canapés, cream teas and cocktails will have you wondering whether to bother with dinner. Not bothering, though, would be a mistake. The food in Bermuda is often a delight. From the very top end – the Blu Bar & Grill in Warwick Parish is cool and plush with heavy white tablecloths and a comprehensive sushi selection – to the unpretentious localfavourite with a killer Bermuda Fish Chowder – the Swizzle Inn at Baileys Bay, you’d be hardpressed not to find some really wonderful seafood.

My particular favourite was Mad Hatters in Hamilton, where the list of specials was longer than the menu and took our waiter ten minutes to reel off. If I ate nothing other than the reef and beef – steak topped with Guinea chick, a type of Bermudian lobster – for the rest of my life, I would be perfectly content. And I’m not even a big fan of red meat.

Just like I’m not a big fan of travelling.

Perhaps Bermuda, then, is a haven for us homebodies. It is suffused with a particular charm: no nasty surprises, no dodgy characters.

There is history: beautiful, engaging, protected pockets of history that spark the imagination. There is food: traditional or nouveau, whatever your tastes, it’s all well cooked and well presented.

There are trails to explore: the disused railway forms an 18 mile circuit of Bermuda that will have you rounding corner after corner of dazzling island vistas. It can be walked, cycled or taken on horseback. And there is the knowledge that you won’t feel at all guilty if all you want to do is lay on the beach and drink some rum and listen to Sade.

Prestige Holidays (01425 480 400; prestigeholidays.co.uk) is offering 7 nights departing in April staying at the Fairmont Southampton in a Moderate room on roomonly basis flying from Gatwick with British Airways including private transfers. Prices start at £1589 per person and include two free nights, saving £416 per couple, for travel until end of April 2014. Based on two adults sharing.

For more information about Bermuda, visit gotobermuda.co.uk

or diving. A subtropical climate means that temperatures are mild to hot and that more often than not it is gloriously sunny. The island proper (all 21 miles by 1 mile of it) abounds in lush green vegetation and fresh, wild-growing fruits. It is, quite simply, a beautiful place.

Divided into ‘parishes’, houses are often painted in candy-sweet pastels and the church is still considered the heart of the community.

The town of St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site has changed little since it was founded and built in the late 17th century, and offers a picturesque glimpse into life on the island way back when. For me, it was enough to walk around and absorb the history, but for those who are looking for more of a story, St. Peter’s Chapel, the oldest Anglican Church outside of the British Isles, is largely unaltered since its completion in 1612. Meanwhile the Royal Naval

59

BERMUDA_C&A.indd 69

13/01/2014 11:28

ABSOLU TELY

FOOD & TRAVEL

THE

BEAUTY SP O T BUMS & BEACHES, BUNS AND BOND, EDWINA LANGLEY FINDS IT ALL IN BRAZIL

60

BRAZIL FEB.indd 66

13/01/2014 11:30

ABSOLUTELY TRAVEL

f you Google the word ‘Brazilian’, this is what the search engine suggests you might be looking for: ‘wax,’ ‘blow dry’, ‘butt lift’.

Apparently, when the world searches for Brazil, it’s beauty they’re after. That might seem a little contrived, but in the days leading up to my trip it was generally beautiful things I thought about – Astrud Gilberto’s ‘tall and tan and young and lovely’ girl from Ipanema, the colour explosion of Carnival, Gisele Bündchen…

The day before I touched down in Rio de Janeiro, British beauty Cara Delevingne had flown in for a Vogue Brazil shoot and as I pulled up outside my hotel, the notorious Copacabana Palace, I was told past guests included Madonna, Marilyn Monroe and Diana, Princess of Wales. Yes, Brazil plays host to the beautiful people, both local and otherwise.

Copacabana Palace is indeed palatial, and sits overlooking the bay of Copacabana Beach, a glistening white tooth in the curved smile of a beautiful Amazonian. Built in 1923, the hotel is a landmark in its own right and in 2011 underwent a $20 million refurbishment, which saw the lobby extend by 90%, its 145 rooms redesigned and the introduction of two new boutiques. In spite of its facelift, however, there is something very traditional about the place. The rooms

I

IF I WERE YOU, I’D SPEND MOST OF MY TIME SWIMMING IN THE BAY OR CANOEING (RATHER, CAPSIZING)

are elegant and understated – ornate bathrooms in muted colours and a small sitting room overlooking the Atlantic. To swim in the outside pool at night, as Fly Me To The Moon floats along on the breeze and waiters plump sun bed cushions nearby, is to feel you’ve been transported back to the 1950s. Cocktail hour will commence after you’ve beehived your hair, when the feijoada (stewed beef with beans) will be served up piping hot and the pão de queijo (cheese flavoured buns) will be fresh from the oven, looking, of course, beautiful.

What’s also beautiful is the view from the top of Corcovado Mountain by the foot of Christ the Redeemer. The 98 foot reinforced concrete and soapstone statue stands with arms outstretched, guarding the swell of Rio below.

Mighty in size, you can’t help but feel humbled by it, not least since the winds there are so strong you get treated to a rather different type of Brazilian blow-dry – whether you’re after one or not. The view backwards, from Pão de Açúcar (Sugarloaf) mountain overlooking the city, with Cristo as the backdrop, is no less beautiful, or dramatic, plus you have the added thrill of imagining yourself in a real drama.

The 1979 Bond flick Moonraker was filmed there, most famously the hair-raising 007 vs.

Jaws battle of the cable car.

For those visiting Rio for the World Cup (this June) or the Olympics in 2016, there are many more beautiful things to absorb.

61

BRAZIL FEB.indd 67

13/01/2014 11:31

ABSOLUTELY TRAVEL

APPARENTLY, WHEN THE WORLD SEARCHES FOR BRAZIL, IT’S BEAUTY THEY’RE AFTER

The Santa Teresa District comprises cobbled winding streets with higgledy-piggledy houses dressed in murals, while the tiled steps of Escadaria Selaron, designed by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón mirror the bohemian feel of the wider area. But for boho-meets-music, there’s only one place to go: Rio Scenarium restaurant and nightclub in Lapa. If its décor were to have a theme, it would be ‘fi lm set vintage’. Old televisions, telephones and artwork hang from the walls, the windows are guarded by 1950s-style shutters, fans whirr from the ceiling and people chatter while eating dinner downstairs. That’s until the music starts. At around midnight the building erupts, live bands play, bums wiggle and hips sway as the rhythm takes over; you lose yourself entirely in the music.

If Rio is the place to lose yourself, then Ponta dos Ganchos is most definitely the place to find yourself again. Just a twohour fl ight from Rio to Florianopolis and a 50-minute drive from there, you’ll find you’ve arrived in heaven. Literal heaven. Somewhere so beautiful that only the most beautiful people would visit. Like Beyoncé and Jay Z, for example.

This privately owned peninsula lies peacefully near the waters of the Emerald Coast. Discrete but luxurious bungalows (just 25 in total) sit hidden in sunspots on the hillside. Designed strictly for adults, this resort is a no children zone, which means everything really is as peaceful as you would hope. With a modest but perfectly usable

fitness centre and a heated swimming pool, you can work off any Rio-induced stress with vigour. But you don’t really want to stay indoors because Ponta dos Ganchos is all about the outside. While each bungalow boasts an open fire, double showers, double lavatories, double wardrobes (no arguments allowed), a sauna, a Jacuzzi and a massive telly, each also features an outdoor hammock overlooking the coast, an infinity-edged plunge pool and an open-air shower. I mean, what more could a human want?

Away from bungalow heaven, there are nature trails (as an avid walker I would say they are more ‘strolls’ than ‘treks’) which lead you to castaway white-sanded beaches. If I were you though, I’d spend most of my time swimming in the bay or canoeing (rather, capsizing) around the mini-island. And after all that exercise, there is a sweet little restaurant on site to stock up on those lost calories, serving up my favourite food: octopus. I must have had it about three times in a row, it was that good. They also make the most delicious baked bread which, although not ideal if you’re hoping to acquire a beach body, is simply too good not to scoff (well, you are on holiday after all).

So no, it’s no surprise I didn’t come back from Brazil a more beautiful person.

What I did come back with was a tan, a plastic gold necklace of Christ the Redeemer and newfound love for shaking my posterior. Perhaps that’s what Google means by ‘Brazilian butt lift’.

COPACABANA PALACE

From £485 per room, per night, including taxes, based on two sharing a Superior City View Room with breakfast. Call Orient-Express Hotels UK reservations on 0845 077 2222; copacabanapalace.com

PONTA DOS GANCHOS

From BRL 1410 (approx. £364) per bungalow per night, based on two sharing, call +55 48 39537000; pontadosganchos.com

FLIGHTS

Return fl ights to Florianópolis via São Paulo from London Heathrow with TAM Airlines start from £864 per person and depart daily. TAM Airlines is part of LATAM Airlines Group and fl ies to over 50 destinations across South America. For three or more flights within Brazil and across South America, get up to 60% off with LATAM Airlines Group’s South American Airpass; tam.com.br

62

BRAZIL FEB.indd 68

13/01/2014 11:31

Visit Gary Ingham Salon & Spa and enjoy Aveda’s up to 99% naturally derived* hair colour Aveda hair colour answers all your needs naturally—from full grey coverage to vibrant colour—while leaving hair essentially damage-free, silky and touchable. Our customized hair colouring system offers precisely matched permanent and long lasting deposit-only shades. With up to 99% naturally derived ingredients*— such as patented green tea extract—we allow you to create bespoke and unique hair colour. from plants and non-petrochemical minerals

*

For a free hair consultation book an appointment today

63-67 Heath Street | Hampstead NW3 6UG | 020 7431 0777 Book online at garyingham.com

FULL PAGE.indd 2 BBT_SalonColourAdHVV.indd 1

22/01/2013 11/01/2013 11:59 19:11

ABSOLUTELY PROMOTION

BANG & OLUFSEN BEOPLAY BEOLIT 12 BANG & OLUFSEN wireless and portable music system for your digital devices. From the capacitive control buttons on the top, to the beautifully machined grille, the neat cablemanagement system and the beautiful Italian leather carry-handle, the Beolit 12 is probably the classiest and most durable portable music system available. The Italian full-grain leather carrying strap is diagonally mounted at the top, letting you carry the unit around, and a solid aluminium speaker grill wraps around the unit, making the speaker fabric visible behind the grill.

On the top of the unit you’ll find volume, power and network controls, and it has a lowered non-slip surface that’ll let you place your iPhone there safely while playing music. The power cord packs neatly away inside the system when not in use.

A

GREAT SOUND TRAVELS The Beolit 12 is a portable music system featuring Apple’s AirPlay technology. It enables you to play music wirelessly from your iPhone, iPod, iPad or computer, offering you unprecedented freedom to enjoy great sound wherever you might be. A built-in rechargeable battery gives up to 8 hours of playback. You can enjoy your music virtually anywhere – in the garden, at the beach or on the road.

SMALL BUT MIGHTY Despite its relatively small size, the Beolit 12 packs a powerful punch of music. We found it gave a stunning performance. We could not believe the awesome performance and amazing sound quality from the portable 120 watts Beolit 12. With Class D power amplifier driving two 2” tweeters and a 4” woofer it was able to give a remarkable performance considering its diminutive dimensions.

We were impressed with the audio the Beolit 12 produced, the music sounded full, rich, and clear. It was a true star of the show and a great performer.

Chill out... keep winter at bay with beautiful new timber windows

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM AT 406 Merton Road, London SW18 5AD or call us on 020 8877 8920

For a limited period only, Bang & Olufsen are offering the exclusive opportunity to save up to £1,300* on a BeoVision 11 when you trade in your old, functioning TV at Bang & Olufsen of Swiss Cottage. *Subject to terms & conditions.

www.ayrtonbespoke.com Absolutely Ad Chill Out.indd 1 HALF VERTICAL.indd 1

B&O.indd 3

16/12/2013 16/12/2013 14:15 16:18

13/01/2014 16:26

ABSOLUTELY TRAVEL

UK GETAWAY

GILPIN LAKE HOUSE LAKE DISTRICT THE ROOMS

THE SPA

A

P

ll rooms at the Lake House are suites and, with just six on offer, stays here are not only exceptionally exclusive but totally private too. Suites have quintessentially British names, highend cosiness is the order of the day and bathrooms are stocked with homemade Jetty Spa products. If you can, stay in Harriet, the most decadent room with lake views.

THE HOTEL

J

ust two miles from Lake Windermere, the family-run Gilpin Lake House is a perfect base for exploring the Lake District. Surrounded by varied trails taking in charmingly traditional pubs (many with their own microbreweries), it is a wonderful destination for walkers, not least because they’ll have the roaring sitting-room fire to look forward to, after an afternoon exploring.

Personal touches here make the difference – staff will find you wellies, lend you maps and recommend routes so that you can make the most of your stay.

erched on the banks of the serene lake waters, The Jetty Spa is an award-winning modern architectural masterpiece. Twin massage beds look out across the lake, allowing for couples treatments. For the most decadent, try the Jetty Spa Trail – five hours of pure indulgence that includes a bespoke aromatherapy blend consultation, a dip in the pool, a sauna and body scrub, a blissful massage, afternoon tea in the cosy little boathouse and a spell in the hot tub with a glass of champagne. Book to start in the late afternoon – nothing beats a hot tub under the stars.

THE RESTAURANT

A

fter a private transfer up to the main hotel, you can look forward to some seriously fine dining. Having been awarded three rosettes by the AA Restaurant Guide, Head Chef Dan Grigg serves up local Lake District produce and West Coast seafood to create modern British masterpieces – think line-caught mackerel, sauced beets, apple compressions and horseradish bark. .

THE DAMAGE

From £485 per room per night, including a five-course dinner, full English breakfast and VAT, plus complimentary chauffeur to and from Gilpin Hotel for dinner. The ‘Jetty Spa Trail’ is exclusive to guests staying at Gilpin Lake House, £300 for two people. 01539 488 818; thegilpin.co.uk

65

UK GETAWAY.indd 5

13/01/2014 12:47

Smart explores the local area.

ZOOPLA_FEB.indd Zest print Ads.indd 42

09/01/2014 24/09/2013 10:49 10:01

FEBRUARY 2014

ABSOLUTELY

PROPERTY

Muswell Road, N10 A beautifully presented four double bedroom Victorian home located just off Muswell Hill Broadway. This fine property has been tastefully modernized by the present owners; added benefits include a 65’ north-westerly facing garden with a swimming pool and a 18’ x 10’ garage nearby on Muswell Avenue.

£1,395,000 Tatlers, Muswell Hill / 020 8444 1771 / tatlers.co.uk 2

PFC.NXNW.FEB.indd 2

13/01/2014 17:19

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

RINGWOOD AVENUE, N2 £1,999,950

A rare opportunity to acquire a five bedroom family home on the Ringwood Estate which has had only two previous owners since the 1950’s.

• 5 Bedrooms • 2 Reception rooms • 3 Bathrooms

THE OWNERS LOVE...

• Fitted kitchen

“The garden with three patios - it’s more like an extension of nature than a domestic setting - (it used to be part of Coldfall Woods in the 30’s) “The kitchen - so much so, we only seem to live in that one room. It›s also been featured in a global TV commercial for Children’s charity; Plan International”

• Office room • Large driveway • Private garden • Close proximity to Eden

WE’VE NOTICED...

• EPC rating - E

The garage has been converted into an office.

The property has a loft which could be converted STPP. East Finchley • T: 020 8883 0077 • E: N2@martyngerrard.co.uk • 66/68 High Road, East Finchley, N2 9PN

MARTYN GERRARD_NXNW_FEB.indd 2

13/01/2014 16:31

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

BRECON MEWS, N7 £1,100,000

A four bedroom three storey staggered terrace house situated in a private gated Mews development.

• 4 Bedrooms • Reception • Kitchen/ Diner

THE OWNERS LOVE...

• Arranged over three floors

“A fantastic house for entertaining” “The space is great with lots of storage, an ideal house for a family” “The development is very quiet and private with great neighbours”

• Communal gardens

WE’VE NOTICED...

• Chain free

The property is contemporary with a central glass atrium.

The development is set just off Brecknock Road with transport links.

• EPC rating - C

• Balcony • Residents parking

Kentish Town office • T: 0207 267 3737 • E: NW5@martyngerrard.co.uk • 304 Kentish Town Road, Kentish Town, London NW5 2TH

MARTYN GERRARD_NXNW_FEB.indd 3

13/01/2014 16:31

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

PALACE COURT GARDENS, N10 £949,950

A three bedroom semi detached 1920s house located in a quiet Cul de Sac off Rosebery Road.

• 3 Bedrooms • 1 Reception • Kitchen Dining room

THE OWNERS LOVE...

• Landscaped garden

“Living in a quiet Cul de Sac means the children can safely play in front of the house as well as the back. “The superb choice of outstanding Primary and Secondary schools that Muswell Hill has to offer” “Being able to slide back all the doors in the kitchen and dining room so the rooms blend seamlessly into the garden.”

• Shared Drive • Solid wood floors • Bathroom with separate shower • Loft with potential for conversion

WE’VE NOTICED...

• EPC rating - E

Close proximity to the grounds of Alexandra Palace and the many amenities of Muswell Hill Broadway.

Muswell Hill office • T: 020 8444 3388 • E: N10@martyngerrard.co.uk • 300/302 Muswell Hill Broadway, London N10 2QR

MARTYN GERRARD_NXNW_FEB.indd 4

13/01/2014 16:32

50 years of

fulfilling dreams ...for all generations

Moving families and creating homes.

Kentish Town 020 7267 3737 Crouch End 020 8348 5135

Muswell Hill East Finchley

020 8444 3388 020 8883 0077

BARNET • CROUCH END • EAST FINCHLEY • FINCHLEY CENTRAL • NORTH FINCHLEY • HENDON • KENTISH TOWN • MILL HILL • MUSWELL HILL • WHETSTONE

MARTYN GERRARD_NXNW_FEB.indd 5

13/01/2014 16:32

PROPERTY

ROUND UP PARHAM MEWS, N10 Prices start from £1,400,000 On a secluded private street atop leafy Muswell Hill, Parham Mews is home to a truly exclusive North London lifestyle. Inside Parham Mews’ carefully designed contemporary homes, large, light-filled spaces accommodate sumptuous living. Classic oak and polished chrome contrast elegantly with sheer white walls. Stone surfaces and state-of-the-art appliances furnish warmth to reception rooms, while bedrooms offer relaxing sanctuary.

Extensive green roofing above Parham Mews’ single-storey sections help to create warmer, more ecologicallyfriendly homes. Each home also features a large, fenced garden to the rear.

Showroom launch 22nd February, to arrange a viewing please contact Hamptons International or Barnard Marcus.

Hamptons International, Muswell Hill 020 8883 5997; hamptons.co.uk Barnard Marcus, Muswell Hill 020 8444 4215; barnardmarcus.co.uk

THE BEST OF BELSIZE PARK VILLAGE Annual price increase: 13% Average house price: £874,964 (Zoopla) KFH in conjunction with Zoopla.co.uk has compiled a selection of London village guides and found that living in or near to a village in London can typically command a premium in the region of 51%. Each month we’ll feature one of those villages, and this month we’re focusing on Belsize Park village.

HOWITT ROAD, NW3

£995,000 - SHARED FREEHOLD A bright and spacious duplex apartment, which forms part of a well maintained period residence. Occupying a quiet location only moments from local amenities, this property offers three double bedrooms, two bathrooms, a 18’ reception room, separate kitchen and a roof terrace.

KFH Belsize Park: 020 7483 4302 Transport links: • Belsize Park tube station (Zone 2 Northern Line) • 24, 46, 168, 268, C11 and N5

Main schools: • Rosary Roman Catholic Primary School • St Christopher’s Primary School

� For more information visit www.kfh.co.uk/village-guides

The village in Belsize Park is one of the capital’s most fashionable hotspots. It is ideally nestled between eclectic Camden Town and glamorous Primrose Hill. With chic, elegant terraces and well-heeled residents to match, this popular NW3 location attracts fashionistas, actors and city professionals alike. Tree lined streets and handsome white stucco terraces, coupled with a charming centre with a parade of boutiques and independent shops, cafes and restaurants, it is clear why so many Londoners favour this great spot. And there’s a strong and well supported community spirit which is amplified by the Belsize Village Association. Another huge draw to the village of Belsize Park is its convenient location; from nearby Belsize Park tube, it takes just 15 minutes into Leicester Square or on a bike just 20 minutes or so downhill into Oxford Circus.

SPOTLIGHT ON:

NW5

Average asking price: £967,337 Average asking rents: £2,077 pcm Average price paid: £658,842

Data provided by property website

Interesting Fact: The average value of a house in Belsize Park is £1million.

72

PROPERTY ROUND UP_NXNW_FEB.indd 72

13/01/2014 17:21

ABSOLUTELY Property

HOLLY HILL, NW3 £750 PER WEEK

BRECKNOCK ROAD, N7 SHARE OF FREEHOLD, OIEO £550,000

Hiding behind a handsome Georgian facade in the heart of the historic Hampstead Village, this pretty cottage with front patio has been refurbished throughout. Arranged over three floors, the house comprises a light reception with wood floors and working gas fireplace, a separate fully equipped kitchen, large master bedroom (with en-suite shower room) that is flooded with natural light, and a second bedroom which is served by a smart family bathroom.

A superbly light and airy two double bedroom maisonette arranged predominantly over the second floor of a Victorian terrace. The generously proportioned accommodation (circa 699.95 sq ft) comprises two bedrooms, a kitchen/reception room with high ceilings and views through to the terrace, a bathroom and double doors off the landing opening to a decked south west facing roof terrace with glorious chimney top views over Leighton Grove & Torriano Avenue.

Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings, Hampstead 020 7435 9681; brlets.co.uk

Oliver’s, Kentish Town 020 7284 1222; oliverstown.com

73

PROPERTY ROUND UP_NXNW_FEB.indd 73

13/01/2014 17:21

Completely at home in London With 50 branches across the Capital and over 35 years’ London property experience, we are perfectly placed to help with all your property needs.

So, if you’re thinking of buying, selling, renting or letting visit kfh.co.uk today.

Our services Sales and Lettings Financial Services Chartered Surveyors Block Management Commercial Property

KFH_FEB_NXNW.indd 2 KFH_Brand_Adverts_January 2014 TEMP.indd 1

10/01/2014 09:32 14:59 09/12/2013

02.1

Grand Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10 £1,895,000 Freehold Muswell Hill 020 8883 0123 Email smh@kfh.co.uk

09:32

KFH_FEB_NXNW.indd 02.14 KFH NXNW.indd 3 2

This seven bedroom house offers 3,021 sq ft of living space arranged over four floors with a cellar on the lower ground floor level. Tetherdown Primary and Fortismere Secondary schools are both nearby and Highgate underground station on the Northern Line is within easy reach.

• • • • • • • • •

Seven bedrooms Two formal reception rooms Fitted kitchen/diner Utility room Two bathrooms Storage cellar Period features Landscaped rear garden EPC rating F

10/01/2014 11:14 14:59 07/01/2014

Stanhope Road, Highgate, N6 £899,995 An outstanding split level, three double bedroom period conversion offering 1,500 sq ft of immaculately presented accommodation on the upper floors of this impressive Victorian building. This property comprises two bathrooms, separate kitchen, utility room, reception room and communal gardens. Shared freehold. EPC rating D. Highgate 020 8341 6666 Email shi@kfh.co.uk

Northwick Terrace, St John’s Wood, NW8 Guide price £1,000,000 An outstanding three bedroom apartment in this popular mansion block. The property is in excellent decorative order and boasts a superb 43ft reception area, two bathrooms, direct access to communal gardens and a porter. Shared freehold. EPC rating D. St John’s Wood 020 7586 8001 Email sjw@kfh.co.uk

KFH_FEB_NXNW.indd 02.14 KFH NXNW.indd 4 3

10/01/2014 10:14 14:59 03/01/2014

02.1

Balcombe Street, Marylebone, NW1 £1,734 pcm Furnished St John’s Wood 020 7586 8817 Email ljw@kfh.co.uk

Beautiful one double bedroom apartment offering high ceilings, wood flooring and a balcony located in the heart of Marylebone.

• • • • • • •

One double bedroom Period features Wood flooring Balcony Excellent location Available now EPC rating D

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

10:14

KFH_FEB_NXNW.indd 02.14 KFH NXNW.indd 5 4

10/01/2014 10:15 15:00 03/01/2014

Hatherley Gardens, Crouch End, N8 £3,683 pcm Unfurnished Crouch End 020 8341 1110 Email lce@kfh.co.uk

A stunning newly built four bedroom family house located in central Crouch End, close to Crouch Hill train station.

• • • • • • •

New build Spacious open plan living area High specification kitchen Two stylish bathrooms Terrace Private garden EPC rating C

£210 tenancy agreement fee per property. Other fees apply, visit kfh.co.uk/lettingsfees

KFH_FEB_NXNW.indd 02.14 KFH NXNW.indd 6 5

10/01/2014 10:15 15:00 03/01/2014

Spotlight on MUSWELL HILL THROUGH THE KEYHOLE...

Sales Manager at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward’s Muswell Hill branch � 020 8883 0123; kfh.co.uk

Grand Avenue, Muswell Hill, N10 £1,895,000 Freehold

ituated on this prestigious avenue in the heart of Muswell Hill close to shops, cafés and boutiques is this splendid seven bedroom family house with an exceptionally large and well-designed garden. This fine home is arranged predominately over three floors and provides 3,021 square feet of living space. Tetherdown Primary and Fortismere Secondary schools are both nearby and Highgate Underground station on the Northern Line is within easy reach.

7 Exterior

7

S

ANDREW HUNT

This is a beautiful example of a double fronted Edwardian red brick house which retains its original period features such as sash windows, stained glass inset to the front door and fretwork.

7

7 Reception room

I love this room with its grand fireplace offset by a cast iron centre with decorative tiles and intricate surround. This along with the bay window and wooden flooring are great features.

7

7 Garden

The current owners acquired additional land to create this wonderful garden. Divided into sections with decking, a pergola and also a lovely lawned area overlooked by a summer house.

BEST SCHOOL

RAINY DAY

FUN FOR FREE

SPORTS

There are so many good schools in Muswell Hill, but if I were to pick it would be those that I went to as a child - Rhodes Avenue Primary and Fortismere, called Creighton Comprehensive in my day.

Either ice skating at Alexandra Palace in winter or alternatively visiting the Odeon Cinema – aside from watching a good movie, the architecture is superb. For the kids, ceramic painting at Zebra Ceramics Pottery Café is always a winner too!

Muswell Hill has great open spaces such as Alexandra Park with its great Children’s playground and deer enclosure. Highgate Wood provides over 28 hectares of ancient woodland is also a haven for wildlife.

Both LA Fitness and the Laboratory Gym’s are great. For something outdoors, the Aquarius Archery Club is situated on the picturesque grounds of Fortis Green covered Reservoir in East Finchley and is loads of fun.

79

SPOTLIGHT.indd 79

13/01/2014 17:23

IN THEIR OWN

WORDS WARREN ROSENBERG CEO of Fusion Residential Photography: Rebecca Noonan

I

am extremely passionate about what I do and I don’t really consider ‘work’ to be ‘work’, but just something I love doing.

My passion for architecture and design derives from my early career path when I opened my first Estate Agency office in Elstree, Hertfordshire in 1983 when I was just twenty years old.

In 1996, I started a residential development company, Village Homes.

Then later on in 2006, together with my life long friend Nigel Henry, we formed Fusion Residential.

Our goal was to create a brand synonymous with luxury and high end design, focussing on the fast changing world that we live in.

There has been an unprecedented change to people’s lifestyles and expectations over the last decade and convenience, communications, international travel and secure living have all evolved, creating a need for a product that had not been built in any form of mass for the leafy London suburbs.

Our team at Fusion have focussed on a target demographic of people who have

either retired or are at a stage in their lives where their children have become independent and, in most cases, have second and third homes abroad. This has led to an attraction to be able to live in a home that has a high level of security, exemplary design, five star specification and concierge facilities to look after their daily needs.

I am proud and excited that Fusion is made up of top level individuals with huge industry experience in developing homes of the highest standard in the suburbs. We have now won three awards in consecutive years at the prestigious and world renowned UK Property Awards. Our team are highly motivated and dynamic, but most importantly are excited about coming to ‘work’.

I am proud to say that Fusion enjoys a fantastic and unparalleled reputation and is a brand held in high regard especially by property aficionados. I truly believe we are ‘changing the face’ of apartment living in North London.

01923 216 531; fusionresidential.co.uk

80

NXNW-ITOW.indd 80

13/01/2014 17:18

ABSOLUTELY Property

81

NXNW-ITOW.indd 81

13/01/2014 17:18

Muswell Road, Muswell Hill, N10

£1,395,000 Freehold Sole Agents

A fine example of a beautifully presented four double bedroom Victorian home which is located just off Muswell Hill Broadway giving easy access to its large selection of shops, restaurants and excellent bus services to Highgate tube (Northern Line). This fine property has been tastefully modernized by the present owners which includes a stunning fitted kitchen and bathroom suite; added benefits also include a 65’ north-westerly facing garden with a swimming pool and a 18’ x 10’ garage which is nearby on Muswell Avenue. Situated within catchment of Fortismere secondary and Muswell Hill primary schools.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

Alexandra Gardens, Muswell Hill, N10

£499,950 Shared Freehold Sole Agents

Benefiting from direct access to its own private garden is a lovely split level first floor purpose built Edwardian maisonette. This bright and airy property is being offered in very good condition throughout and retains many original period features; added benefits also include own private entrance and share of the freehold. Situated within moments walk from Muswell Hill Broadway with its large selection of shops and restaurants, excellent bus services to Highgate tube (Northern Line) and Finsbury Park tube (Victoria and Piccadilly Line). Within catchment of Muswell Hill primary school.

Contact our Muswell Hill Office on 020 8444 1771

BRANCHES AT MUSWELL HILL, CROUCH END AND EAST FINCHLEY TATLERS_FEB.indd 1

10/01/2014 14:53

www.tatlers.co.uk

Kenwin Lodge, Western Road, N2

£475,000 Share of Freehold Sole Agents.

SI

M

IL

A

S R OL R D EQ U IR

ED

Tatlers are delighted to offer for sale this two double bedroom flat with garage located on the first floor of a purpose built block located on a desirable road off Fortis Green. Kenwin Lodge is a purpose built 1960’s block located within a five minute walk to East Finchley underground tube station (Northern Line) giving easy access to Central London. The property benefits a good size reception room with access to a kitchen and benefits having a “share of the freehold”. Requiring minor works and being offered chain free, early viewings are advised.

Contact our East Finchley Office on 020 8883 1001

Christchurch Road, Crouch End, N8

£500,000 Leasehold Sole Agents

A well presented top floor split level apartment which forms part of an imposing and statuesque period building. In an elevated position the property is light and airy with views over Crouch End. The balcony and roof terrace are a huge bonus affording private outside space on an upper level apartment. The master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with a Jacuzzi bath looking out onto the roof terrace. There is a good sized eat in kitchen and a large, bright and welcoming reception room. The property has real character and charm and is a stroll away from the Broadway and travel links into the city.

Contact our Crouch End Office on 020 8341 4050

TATLERS_FEB.indd 2

10/01/2014 14:53

ABSOLUTELY Property

Ask the Experts Our panel of professionals give you the edge in the property market

HEMA ANAND � 020 7354 3000 / colmancoyle.com

From Colman Coyle gives her expert advice on all your legal property questions

Q. I have a missing Landlord and want to extend the lease of my flat. What should I do?

A. You do not say on what basis the

Nicholas King

Manager of Faron Sutaria, Camden � 020 7267 7074; faronsutaria.co.uk

Q. Where should I invest?

A. Camden offers the perfect environment for families, city workers and overseas buyers alike. Investors should concentrate on areas close to Northern Line tube stations or within the catchment areas of Camden’s excellent schools, as well as those with aspects overlooking the Regents Canal. Camden Square Conservation Area and Bartholemew Estate Conservation Area are good for local schools; Oval Road and Jamestown Road for transport and canal side living. The 67 acre Kings Cross development is breaking new £ per sq ft records for Camden, with the finished project providing 3.4 million sq ft of workspace and 500,000 sq ft of retail space which is expected to attract 45,000 new people to the area.

Hamish Gilfeather Sales Manager at John D. Wood & Co., Primrose Hill � 020 7586 9060; johndwood.co.uk

Q. Why hasn’t my property sold?

A. Any property will sell if the price is correct, but sometimes it might take longer than expected or prove difficult. Getting the price right is essential. The market is buoyant, prices are rising, as are the numbers of buyers, but people are becoming increasingly price sensitive due to the amount of readily available information on the internet. If the £psf (price per square foot) seems too high or they deem it too expensive, the property is often dismissed.

Presentation is also incredibly important, as is having an enthusiastic agent who markets the property properly and actively.

Landlord is said to be missing or cannot be found. Assuming you meet the qualifying criterion set out in the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993, you may be able to extend your lease.

You will need to show that you have made reasonable efforts to locate the Landlord, which may include placing adverts in newspapers in the vicinity of the last known address of the Landlord and your fl at, making enquiries of the Land Registry or Companies House, as the case may be, possibly employing a search agent and so forth. I am assuming that the Landlord is alive.

On the basis therefore that you have established that the Landlord cannot be found or is missing, an application is made to the County Court to assess whether or not you are entitled to a lease term extension and must be satisfied that reasonable efforts have been made to locate the Landlord. If so, the County Court will refer the matter to the First Tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) who shall essentially be responsible for deciding how much should be paid for the lease term extension. The matter is then referred back to the County Court who shall execute the paperwork and accept the payment on behalf of the Landlord.

ASK THE EXPERTS Contact property partner Hema Anand with no obligation on (0)20 7354 3000 or email hema.anand@colmancoyle.com  www.colmancoyle.com 80 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0NU

SPOTLIGHT ON: N8 Average asking price - £3,243,492 | Average asking rents - £4,639 pcm | Average property value - £1,155,477 Data provided by property website 84

Ask the expert NXNW sales1.indd 84

13/01/2014 17:16

020 8348 5515

crouch.end@castles-estateagents.co.uk

www.castles-estateagents.co.uk

Crouch End Sales & Lettings

Milton Road, N6

Ferme Park Road, N8

£500,000 LEASEHOLD + SOFH

‘POA’ FREEHOLD

Mount View Road, N4

Ferme Park Road, N8

£425,000 SOFH

£334,999 LEASEHOLD + SOFH

• 2 Bedroom, split-level apartment • First floor of period conversion • Open-planned kitchen/reception • Highgate underground nearby

· Private purpose built block · Lift access · 2 double bedroom · Near to Crouch End Broadway

· Substantial family home · 6 Bedrooms · Exquisitely presented · Convenient location

• One double-bedroom apartment • Ground floor period residence • Own front door & front garden • Finsbury Park BR nearby

12 Topsfield Parade, London N8 8PR CASTLE_NXNW_FEB.indd 2

13/01/2014 13:01

S SH SH LALSAH H OW LALUAUO OW OW W UN UN HH NN CHCHHH O CHCH O OM OM DADAMM DADYAYEE EE YY

T: T: 020 020 8444 8444 4215 4215 www.sequencehome.co.uk www.sequencehome.co.uk

T: T: 020 020 8945 8945 5907 5907 www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk

artingrantho artingranthoeses coco uu

Price Price correct correct at time at time of going of going to press. to press.

Computer Computer generated generated image. image.

Interior Interior images images show show previous previous Martin Martin Grant Grant Homes Homes show show houses. houses.

MapMap not not to scale. to scale.

www.parhammews.com www.parhammews.com www.parhammews.com www.parhammews.com

WAYWAY HAM HAM PA RPA R WAYWAY M A A H H M VE VE PA RPA R S AE S A E DU KDU KAV E AV E S ES E K DU DU K

X

X

RD RD L LL EL RED RD W W SL L US U EL EL M M W W US US M M

A LA LA A CAE CE L A L AW W C CAY AY E E W W AY AY

E X AN AN ED D XR R A N A NA P A P DR DRA A A A PA PA

06 06 B1 B1 06 06 1 B B1

AL AL AL AL

QUEQ EU E NE S AN S A QUEQ EU E VE VE NE S AN S A VE VE

ICRTIO V ICT VO AR A RD RID A LEAXLAENXDARNADR A PA RPA R K K A LEAXLAENXDARNADR A RD RD PA RPA R K RD K RD

ALEXANDRA ALEXANDRA PALACE PALACE ALEXANDRA ALEXANDRA P P A A PALACE PALACE R R D PD P N N A RAA R A E X NEDX ND A L XAAL X A E E AL AL A

A Acollection collectionofofelegantly elegantlydesigned designed3 3 A A collection collection of of elegantly elegantly designed designed 33 and and4 4bedroom bedroom homes homes boasting boasting stunning stunning and and 4 4 bedroom bedroom homes homes boasting boasting stunning stunning contemporary contemporary interiors interiorsand andgenerous generousprivate private contemporary contemporary interiors interiors and and generous generous private private eachbuilt builttotoa asuperior superiorstandard, standard, gardens gardenseach gardens gardens each each built built to to a asuperior superior standard, standard, combining combining the the very very best best of ofvillage village tranquillity tranquillity combining combining the the very very best best of of village village tranquillity tranquillity and andLondon Londonvivacity vivacityinina adevelopment development and and London London vivacity vivacity a adevelopment development st st inin that that embodies embodies 2121 Century Century aspirations. aspirations. st st that thatembodies embodies2121Century Centuryaspirations. aspirations.

ICRTIO V ICT VO AR A RD RID

E

Join Joinususon-site on-siteforforthe theofficial officialunveiling unveiling Join Joinususon-site on-siteforforthe theofficial officialunveiling unveiling ofofour ourstunning stunningnene hoho o o e eatat ofofour ourstunning stunningnene hoho o o e eatat Parham ParhamMews, Mews,Muswell MuswellHill, Hill,N10 N102AT 2AT Parham ParhamMews, Mews,Muswell MuswellHill, Hill,N10 N102AT 2AT

RD RD RK RK RD RD K R RK

E

Show Show Home Opening Show ShowHome Home HomendOpening Opening Opening nd Saturday Saturday 22 February Saturday Saturday22 22 22ndndFebruary February February 10am 10am 3pm 10am 10am––––3pm 3pm 3pm

RD RD RT RT BE LBERD RD L A AR T R T BE BE AL AL

R RD OD ENOERNR GROGSRVOSV R RD OD ENOERNR GROGSRVOSV

A5 A5 04 04

A5 A5MU MU 0 4 house 0 4 SW SW 3 3bedroom bedroom house MU MUEL EL LH LH SW SW 3 3bedroom bedroom house house A A EL ELILL ILL 50 50 5 5 50 50 5 5

W

For For more more information information oror toto confirm confirm your your attendance attendance RSVP RSVP our our selling selling agents agents

E E AV AV E EE E TH ATVH AV E E VE VE TH TH E A E A OV OV E E GR GR AV AV E E OV OV GR GR D D RY R RY R E BEE BE ROSROS D D RY R RY R E BEE BE ROSROS

u u

PRICES PRICESFROM FROM£1,400,000 £1,400,000

AV EAV E E LLE LL SW SW MU MU L AVLEAV E EL EL N N SW SW MU MU HLHL AT CAT C E Y HE Y H LN LN OLNOLN T C HT C H A 0 5 5C 0 C Y HA B 5 5B E EY H OLNOLN 0 5 5C 0 C B 5 5B

W AY AY

u

www.parhammews.com www.parhammews.com

RESERVED RESERVED RESERVED RESERVED A

A

LH LH I LL I LL

4 4bedroom bedroomhouses houses 4 4bedroom bedroomhouses houses

PRICES PRICESFROM FROM£1,400,000 £1,400,000 PRICES PRICESFROM FROM£1,400,000 £1,400,000

For For more more information information oror toto confirm confirm your your attendance attendance RSVP RSVP our our selling selling agents agents For For more more information information oror toto confirm confirm your your attendance attendance RSVP RSVP our our selling selling agents agents

T: T: 020 020 8444 8444 4215 4215 T: T: 020 020 8945 8945 5907 5907 T: T: 020 020 8444 8444 4215 4215 T: T: 020 020 8945 8945 5907 5907 www.sequencehome.co.uk www.sequencehome.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk artingrantho artingranthoeses coco uu www.sequencehome.co.uk www.sequencehome.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk artingrantho artingrantho es es co co uu Price Price correct correct at time at time of going of going to press. to press.

Computer Computer generated generated image. image.

Interior Interior images images show show previous previous Martin Martin Grant Grant Homes Homes show show houses. houses.

MapMap not not to scale. to scale.

Price Price correct correct at time at time of going of going to press. to press.

Computer Computer generated generated image. image.

Interior Interior images images show show previous previous Martin Martin Grant Grant Homes Homes show show houses. houses.

MapMap not not to scale. to scale.

BARNARD MARCUS_FEB.indd 2

13/01/2014 17:34

The multi award winning agency offer the deal of a lifetime...

Relates to estate agency fees. This does not include solicitor’s fees or the cost of a legally required Energy Performance Certificate. This offer is only available to the first 200 sellers in the Camden Borough who instruct the Edmund Cude Camden office to sell their property on a sole agency basis. No commission will be charged to the seller, provided the property is placed under offer and lawyers are instructed on or before 5pm on 21st April 2014.

edmundcude.com

EDMUND CUDE NXNW CORPORATE.indd 2

13/01/2014 10:40

M I S

F O R

M A R V E L L O U S

M A G N I F I C E N T M U S T

M U R A N O

ONLY

1

APARTMENT

H A V E

H O U S E

NOW

REMAINING

AN EXCLUSIVE COLLECTION OF LUXURY APARTMENTS OVERLOOKING HADLEY WOOD GOLF COURSE WITH CONCIERGE

COCKFOSTERS ROAD - HADLEY WOOD

A PA R T M E N T S O P E N F O R V I E W I N G F R I D A Y, S A T, S U N , M O N 1 0 - 5 P M

A L L OT H E R T I M E S P L E A S E C A L L 0 1 9 2 3 2 1 6 5 3 5 fusionresidential.co.uk

MURANO.indd 2

17/10/2013 12:41

Estate Agents Since 1988

Sales Lettings Property Management

LET

Regents Park Road, NW1 LET

St Augustines Rd, NW1

LET

Langland Gdns, NW3 LET

Fitzjohn’s Ave, NW3

LET

Princess Rd, NW1 LET

Caversham Rd, NW5

Hampstead, 5 Pond St, NW3 2PN, +44(0)20 7431 1020 Primose Hill, 47a Chalcot Rd, NW1 8LS, +44(0)20 7722 5054 Kentish Town, 189 Kentish Town Rd, NW5 2JU, +44(0)20 7284 1222 info@oliverstown.com

OLIVERS_FEB.indd 2

oliverstown.com 10/01/2014 17:44

The spoils of the hardy workplace warrior.

PL_NOV.indd 2 ZOO1205 PL DPS_Zest_420x297.indd 5-6

09/01/2014 10:53

PL_NOV.indd 3

09/01/2014 05/08/2013 10:53 14:20

Our doors are always open... to landlords and tenants alike Benham and Reeves Lettings have been serving landlords and tenants in London since 1956.

With 11 well placed lettings branches, we are able to give tenants a wide choice of locations and properties.

For landlords... we offer a full lettings & property management service, furnishing packages and refurbishment service,

making us your one-stop rental property partner.

Instruct us now on 020 7319 9783 or email info@brlets.co.uk or visit www.brlets.co.uk

Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings

BENHAM & REEVES OBC.indd 2

brletsuk

DUBAI | HONG KONG | INDIA | LONDON | MALAYSIA | SINGAPORE

09/01/2014 14:54